British Kinematography (1952)

158 Vol. 21, No. 6 THE PRESENTATION OF 16mm. FILMS H. S. Hind, A.M.I.E.E., F.R.P.S. (Fellow)* Read to a Meeting of the [6mm. Film Division on October 8, 1952 WHEN films are used, whether it be for entertainment, instruction or propaganda, the work involved can be divided into definite stages. First, there is the preparation of the script, which is followed by the production or the recording of picture and sound on to the film. Next is the preparation of release prints from the original records, and finally the presentation of the release print in the form of light and sound. One of these stages differs from all the others in a single but very important respect. There is no second chance in presenting a film as there is in producing a film, where the picture can be shot again if it is not satisfactory in the first place. Even if the audience can be persuaded to wait, or to return at a later date, the bad impression created by the first faulty presentation will remain. The 16mm. Film Division of the Society has a number of Committees working on the problems associated with the production and presentation of 16mm. films. While I do not wish to anticipate the reports of these Committees, I do not think I can do better in introducing this subject to-night, than to quote the conclusion, which will probably form a part of the report on 16mm. Film Presentation. " The value of the film, and indeed its power, lies in its ability to transport the audience to other surroundings or even to a land of fantasy. If this power is to be used to the full, the audience must not be brought " back to earth " and there must be nothing to disturb the atmosphere which has been created by the producer of the film. The presentation must be given in an atmosphere of unobtrusive service and competence ; there must be no sudden changes in the surroundings such as would be caused by external noises or the entry of extraneous light. The audience must not become fatigued by uncomfortable seats, or by eye strain, which quickly results from a poorly illuminated or unsteady picture. Any other influence which might have a disturbing effect upon the concentration of the audience and result in making them aware of their real surroundings, must be avoided. If the audience remains aware of the auditorium in which it is seated and the personnel who are presenting the film, then the value of the film is largely lost. Only by careful planning, by maintaining the equipment in first-class condition and by competence on the part of the staff can full advantage be made of films." First of all let us analyse what is required for good presentation, or in other words, what constitutes good showmanship. Quite simply, the object is to hold the audience by visual and sound effects. To do this complete control of the aural and visual senses of each member of the audience must be taken. This is not always easy and of course depends to an enormous extent upon the contents of the film. On the other hand, the best film can be ruined by faulty presentation. It is immediately obvious that the eyes and ears of the audience must not be strained in any way, otherwise the resulting fatigue will produce one of two things : the members of the audience will either become aware of their real surroundings and cease to be engrossed in the picture and sound, or they will be entirely unaware of their surroundings, in fact, fast asleep. Further it is an advantage if all the other senses are in a dormant condition and do not intrude. The Auditorium Starting with the auditorium and remembering the essential requirements which have been discussed, it is clear that there must be a restful atmosphere, restful not only to the senses not required but also to those that are required so that they can more easily be excited when the time comes. The seats should be comfortable, the auditorium quiet and at a suitable temperature ; the lighting and colouring should be subdued. * Sound Services, Ltd.