Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Find An 8mm Film Splicer

Movie film is making a comeback with independent filmmakers. While 16mm has been the film stock of choice for college and other independent film projects, 8mm, too, is making a comeback. If you are going to make a movie with 8mm film, you will need to be able to edit it, which requires a film editor or splicer.


Instructions


1. Check local garage sales, flea markets and antique stores for 8mm film splicers. Often, these have been lying around a basement or in the back of a closet for many years, but they still may work. You probably will need to replace the razor blade cutter and lubricate and clean the hinge, but there is a good chance it will function.


2. Try the local photography store. While it probably has not sold new film splicers in years, some used models may come in from time to time. They may be inexpensive since there probably isn't much demand for them.


3. Check the listings on eBay and other such websites. Since people put things on eBay they no longer can use, you may find 8mm film splicers available often. Make sure you are buying a splicer for they type of film you will be shooting. Some splicers work for both 8mm and 16mm, but if you find one that is only for 16mm, you may not get precise cuts for your edits.


4. Check specialty websites such as Phil's Vintage Movie Films and Collectibles and Spectra Film and Video (see "Resources"). These type websites specialize in movie-making supplies such as reels, leader tape, splicing tape and film splicers. They may sell used or new splicers at any particular time. You can get exactly the kind of splicer you need from the specialty websites.

Tags: film splicers, film will, making comeback, specialty websites, will need