Side by Side Digital and Film

The Last twelve years has seen a transition from film as a principle format for delivery to Digital. The Old guard have either embraced the new technology or have stood their ground defending film with all its limitations with their last breath. Undeterred the revolution gathers pace, as technological advancements keep pushing the capabilities of the digital  form.

     This is to be expected, by its very nature and make-up digital film making is undergoing constant innovation and breakthroughs much like the computer industries has done over the last thirty years. Whatever criticisms one might have about digital as a format, it is now the established norm and its not just projection , cameras , editing that this evolution has effected. 

     Side by Side is not a dry boring history lesson or discussion, it is in fact a fascinating discourse on both where the format has come from and where it is now. But it doesn't really cover the whole story as breakthroughs are still taking place even now as I type after the films completion's, high frame rates being the latest development.

     It is ironic that I caught this moving on itunes, a digital delivery of a film shot digitally. Convenient, quick, and viewable anywhere I choose once downloaded. Keanu Reeves guides us on an interesting and informative journey with simple yet effective examples of the advances currently being made. It is a fascinating documentary that deserves an audience and to be seen. 

     It provides both sides of the digital divide with a voice, without ridiculing its subjects. This leads to some thought provoking idea's, defensive arguments. But in closing George Lucas comments resonate the most. 

     Digital film is advancing it is a constant evolutionary process, as its limitations are reached , advancements are made.  There are no boundaries just a constant striving for superior picture.

     Lastly and bearing in mind the nature of digital technology, high frame rates will improve. Peter Jackson took the first digital step and critics were quick to point out some of its video like moments. But I do not underestimate that this is HFR 1.0 and now the first step has been taken, those critics will be silenced as a more filmic experience is sought. 

The Adventures of Tintin

I'm an unashamed Spielberg and Jackson Fan, when its a rainy day or I'm feeling Low its Jaws or Raiders that go into the DVD player. Of Jackson's films its The Frighteners, or Braindead. So to see a film that is a marriage of these two cinematic titans and to see it at the close of the old year I was excited to say the least.
     Tintin being European is part of my youth, summer holidays were marked by morning programming geared to entertain kids on those rainy days that prohibited playing outside. Herge's adventures of Tintin was s regular staple. For me as a kid it wasn't Tintin that kept me glued to the screen more it was the Thompson twins and Captain Haddock. With a Blistering barnacles you knew fun was on the cards.
     Prior to the films release back in October my wife had treated me to the purchase of the Art of book, yet another brilliant Weta publication which not only allows you in on the creative process but in such a way that does not give too much away about the films story.
     So I went in with high expectations and came away with one great big smile on my face. This film from the opening titles quickly propels you into the almost photo realistic world of Herge"s creation. Weta have once again thrown us a game changer, the play of light , their skillful character designs which capture Tintin's  essence and world without any sense of artificiality.
     Stephen Moffat, Joe Cornish and Edgar Wright bring a European sensibility to the tale, it starts off slowly quickly establishing the main plot then propels you at pace through action and plot. All this with an emphasis on fun and once Captain Haddock arrives on screen the real fun begins. This is a film with Spielberg firing on all cylinders and his joy comes across on the screen with infectious enthusiasm and outrageous action setpieces concluding with a breathtaking crane battle. This is a joy to watch and family friendly fare and I hope there are more tales to come.
      In closing a special mention for the excellant use of 3D, animation of course lends itself well to the medium and in this film its use just shines, so if you get the chanced this would be my preferred viewing option.