When transferring Commercials from video to 35mm film there are a number of topics to address. Consideration of these issues at the earliest stages of post-production will ensure the highest quality output to 35mm negative.
Video
Frames Converted to Film Frames
NTSC video runs at 30 (29.97) frames per second
and PAL video at 25fps, and both formats are interlaced. 35mm motion picture
film runs at 24 frames per second. Somehow the interlaced video source material
must be converted to 24fps non-interlaced for film projection.
Video
Material that Originated on Film
If
the video footage originated on film, then a 3:2 sequence was most likely
added during the film to video transfer session to create a 30 fps version.
Before the final spot is transferred back to film, the 3:2 sequence must be
removed to return the material back to the original 24 fps. If you are planning
a commercial spot for cinema release, it would be beneficial to have it conformed
to 24fps during your video online session. Cine-Byte also provides this 24-frame
conform service for cinema spots.
Video
Originated Footage
Cine-Byte
uses a proprietary software algorithm to convert field-based video to 24 fps
non-interlaced frames. If your commercial spot contains material that was
originally shot on video, Cine-Byte's software solution will convert PAL or
NTSC video to 24fps non-interlaced with no motion artifacting.
High Rez
Titling and Animation
Titling: Although it is possible to transfer NTSC or PAL resolution titles and supers to 35mm film from a video master, the text may appear soft and difficult to read, especially where small font sizes have been used. High resolution rendering of titles, logos and artwork results in increased sharpness and legibility and improves the overall quality of the spot when projected. Cine-Byte can recreate high resolution titling and artwork for most cinema spots. If supers are to be redone at high resolution, a superless submaster of the commercial spot will be required.
Animation: Any segments containing animation that was created at 30 fps (such as animated titles or computer generated characters) will have to be time-compressed down to 24 fps. It is recommended that you consult with us before post-production to discuss how these issues can be addressed.
Framing for Film
The two standard motion picture projection aspect ratios for North America are 1:1.85 and 1:2.35 (flat and scope). Currently the standard for broadcast video is 1:1.33 (4x3). When posting video material for output to film, image cropping for theatrical projection must taken into consideration as illustrated below.
Framing for Film on a 4x3 Aspect Ratio