Introduction: During the film era, many old movies were stored in very fragile condition. In the early days, film was made from a nitrate base, which was highly flammable, with the risk of spontaneous combustion over 40 degrees Celsius. Later, acetate and polyester bases replaced nitrate, but acidification, deterioration, fading, and scratches were common.

The passage of time has left its mark on film, and some classics may be lost forever. In order to preserve those precious memories, a group of film restorers are actively rescuing films before they disappear.

Along with understanding film, color, film history, and post-production, film restorers need to respect old films and have "the spirit of craftsmanship, to endure loneliness," because it takes years and months to restore a movie. 

Tutor: Bede Cheng

Managing director of the film restoration laboratory L‘Immagine Ritrocata Asia, a film producer, and lecturer at the Hong Kong Baptist University.

Duration: 75min

Content outline:

Discover how movie restoration works from the instructor as he demonstrates and explains the process.