This yearat the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kodak announced a “filmmaking initiative” encouraging budding filmmakers to use their upcoming line of Super 8 cameras. This is a rather intriguing proposal on Kodak’s part considering how digital video has succeeded analog film as the chosen mode of technology. However, there were numerous movies and television series shot on film during 2015 alone, a salient point that has likely empowered Kodak to take on Canon, Sony, even Blackmagic Design and then some.
In other words: everything old is new again.
Kodak unveiled what appears to be two versions of their prototype, as made evident in this tweet they put out during this year’s CES event.
The camera would also feature digital functionality, even though it will maintain a look and feel similar to the original Kodak Super 8. But placing this in the hands of amateurs, students and professionals is only part of the plan, as Kodak will roll out a “whole range of cameras, film development services, post production tools and more” according to their press release. Jeff Clarke, Eastman Kodak Chief Executive Officer, is quoted as saying “It is an ecosystem for film. Following the 50th anniversary of Super 8, Kodak is providing new opportunities to enjoy and appreciate film as a medium.”
Rallying behind the launch are noted directors Steven Spielberg, Christopher Nolan and JJ Abrams. In the press release, Nolan states, “The news that Kodak is enabling the next generation of filmmakers with access to an upgraded and enhanced version of the same analog technology that first made me fall in love with cinematic storytelling is unbelievably exciting.”
