Trends in the Development of Motion-Picture Technology in the USSR

Abstract

Besides noting the progress in recent years, the prospects of further development are set forth as to the volume of motion-picture production, release printing and distribution, the number of theaters and their capacity. Various cinema systems are covered: Academy format, 35mm anamorphic, wide-screen and 70mm, and transition from one format into the other. Besides development of stereoscopic and varioscopic cinematography, intended for professional purposes and non-theatrical presentation at exhibitions, museums, etc., there are prospects of using holographic methods. The trends in 16mm and 8mm systems are considered. The basic features are outlined for such as camera optics and equipment for film shooting, lighting equipment, special-effects methods, sound recording and location shooting equipment. There are also technical novelties in the field of acoustics and sound stage equipment. Using TV technology and magnetic video-recording for film production of feature films are evaluated. New features of technological processes, raw film stock and equipment for film processing, printing and quality control are considered. Basic features in motion-picture theater design are given, with specifications of widely used and new unified equipment for projection, sound recording and reproduction and power supply. The results of using xenon lamps in cinema theaters are reported. The present state of the art and prospects for more automatization of film presentations in theaters are described, including an automatic system for entire film distribution and exhibition control, based on computer technique.