The Afterlife of Film Reels: Cinema Owners’ Practices for Handling Post-Viewing Reels

Once a movie is removed from public viewing, cinema owners face the challenge of what to do with the film reels. The process of dealing with these physical artefacts has evolved significantly with the advent of digital cinema, but many traditional methods persist. Here, we explore the various options that cinema operators have, from returning the reels to distributors to storing or auctioning them off.

Returning to Distributors

One common practice for film reels is returning them to the distribution company or studio. Many films are rented or leased, which necessitates their return. This is a convenient and cost-effective solution for both the cinema owner and the distribution company.

Storage for Future Use

Some theaters opt to store the film reels for potential future use. This decision might be driven by the anticipated re-screening of the film, or by the film's historical significance. Stacking these reels can be a way to ensure that they are protected and preserved for potential future viewing.

Recycling or Disposal

For those film reels that are no longer needed and cannot be returned, cinema owners need to dispose of them in an environmentally responsible manner. Recycling the materials or implementing other sustainable practices ensures that the environmental impact is minimized.

Sale or Auction

In some cases, cinema owners might choose to sell the film reels. This is particularly common for films that have cult status or are considered classics. Collectors, other theaters, or even auction houses might be interested in these reels. For instance, cult films like The Room and classics like The Godfather have reels that are highly sought after.

Exhibits or Displays

Some cinemas keep the film reels for display purposes. This could be because the film is iconic, or it forms part of a special event or retrospective. Displaying the reels serves to highlight the history of cinema and can draw interest from film enthusiasts and historians.

It is essential to note that the practice of dealing with film reels has shifted with the move towards digital cinema. Release prints, which were once common, are now mostly digital files. However, the physical film reels from earlier decades are still valued and preserved.

The Historical Context

Release prints, the precursors to modern distribution methods, were the property of the distribution company handling the theatrical release. These prints would be returned to the distributor after the theatrical run and inspected. If multiple copies were in poor condition, they would often be destroyed. Better-conditioned prints or rare ones would be stored in vaults for future use, such as re-releases or festival screenings.

Storage Facilities

Across Hollywood, both studio-owned and privately held vaults house original negatives, internegatives, workprints, and related documentation. These vaults are kept in dark, temperature- and humidity-controlled secure environments. Most movies from the beginning of cinema history are stored this way, protected for future generations.

Where You Can Find Prints

Prints often end up in various locations beyond the theatrical venues. You might find them at swap meets, in people's garages, or even in your own home, such as under the camping equipment. Key individuals involved in films often end up with a print, especially if they have a home screening room, or if the film has been to festivals. A well-cared-for print can be a treasure to those interested in film history.

The Retro Thrill

Discovering a film reel and setting up a retro-style theater can be a thrilling experience. The process of dealing with scratches, dust, and faded colors creates a uniquely romantic and impractical atmosphere. While it may not be practical for everyday use, it can provide a nostalgic and immersive experience for those who appreciate the history of cinema.

With the shift towards digital cinema, the handling of film reels has changed, but the value and interest in these physical artifacts remain. Cinema owners play a crucial role in preserving and honoring the legacy of early cinema, whether by returning, storing, recycling, or preserving these revered pieces of film history.