:: 1.25.2005 ::

The Day the Celluloid Died
Jason Silverman writes in Wired that new wireless technology could drastically change the way feature films are distributed:

Dager said that studios could send films to venues around the world simultaneously. Demand for pirated materials could drop and movie releases could become huge, global events. The savings to studios and distributors would be substantial, too -- creating, shipping and destroying 35-mm prints cost an estimated $1.5 billion a year.

But wireless delivery might be an even bigger boon for independent venues, and not just theaters. Got a cafe and want to screen the new arty experiment from Belgium? Or are you hoping to use a documentary to rally Wal-Mart opponents in your local library? Or to show some gritty shorts in your hipster club?

Once a wireless infrastructure is in place, you'll just need a computer, a projector, some chairs and a white wall. Sign on, select from what could become a nearly infinite menu of titles, pay your fee and you'll be in the movie business.

If it becomes inexpensive enough, such an innovation would also bring every movie-lover's dream of owning a home screening room one reel away from denouement.

:: Posted by Grant "C.K." Dexter Haven @ 5:37 PM [+] ::
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