Understanding the Mystery of Dark Dots on Old Films

Films, especially those made on celluloid before the digital age, are often adorned with unusual dark dots or marks. These marks can be perplexing, but they play a significant role in the history and restoration of films. This article will explore what these dots are, why they appear, and their significance in the world of cinema.

The Enigma of Film Dots

You might have noticed small dark dots often appearing in the upper corners of old films. These dots are known as film hickeys or cigarette burns.

The History and Meaning of Film Hiccies

In the days when movies were projected using film (pre-digital), film hickeys served a practical purpose. Instead of being technical imperfections, they were actually deliberate marks placed by production crews. These dots were used as reel indicators, alerting the projectionist when a change in reels was needed.

What are Cigarette Burns?

As mentioned by Johnson, the term cigarette burns is another name for film hickeys. Projectionists would often have to switch reels mid-show, and these marks were their cue to do so. However, with the advent of digital technology, the need for reel changes has ceased, and with it, the practice of placing these marks. Today, they are more of an antique curiosity than a functional necessity.

How are Film Hiccies Created?

There are several reasons why these marks appear. Primarily, they can be caused by dirt or emulsion degradation. Even when films are transferred to video, they may not be cleaned properly, or an old print may be used, leading to such marks appearing.

The Role of Film Reels in Projection

In the era of analog film, movies were often split into multiple reels, each containing a segment of the film. These reels would be loaded into separate projectors, and as one reel neared its end, it would signal the projectionist to switch to the next reel. The film hickeys served as a visible marker for this transition.

Film Hiccies in Modern Movies

For older films, such as those made on 16mm, you may notice a small mark, typically in the upper right corner, indicating when a reel change is required. While this may seem outdated to modern audiences, it highlights the meticulous process involved in creating and screening films in the past.

Restoration and Archiving

Understanding the history behind film hickeys is crucial for both film enthusiasts and restoration professionals. These marks can provide valuable insights into how a film was originally meant to be screened and can be crucial for proper restoration. In archive collections, these marks help in identifying and handling the film prints with precision to avoid further damage.

Conclusion

From practical signaling devices to historical curiosities, film hickeys carry a rich history of the film industry. These tiny dots, once commonplace, now serve as a bridge to the past, reminding us of a time when film projection was a complex and meticulous process. Understanding their significance not only enriches our appreciation of classic films but also serves as a reminder of the continuous evolution in how we experience moving pictures.

FAQ

What are cigarette burns in films?

Cigarette burns are another name for film hickeys. They were deliberate marks placed on old films to signal when a reel change was necessary. With the advent of digital technology, their use has become obsolete.

Why are there dark dots on old films?

Dark dots on old films can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirt, emulsion degradation, or old prints. These marks serve historical and practical purposes and are essential in understanding how films were originally screened.

How can understanding film hickeys help in restoration?

Understanding film hickeys can aid in the restoration process by providing valuable information about the original screening process and helping restoration professionals to handle films with the necessary precision to avoid further damage.