Kodak Implements New Policy Restricting Vision 3 Film Sales to Motion Picture Production

Eastman Kodak has introduced a new policy that significantly impacts the purchase and use of its Vision 3 35mm bulk film. As of recent changes, customers can only buy Vision 3 35mm bulk film directly from Kodak if it is intended for use in motion picture film production. This policy, which may have been in place but is now being enforced more strictly, requires buyers to complete a detailed form providing information about the film project, including the company, director, cinematographer, producer, and shooting location.

This new requirement is likely to reduce the availability of ECN2 35mm film for still photography purposes. However, some companies like Flic Film will not be affected due to their existing agreement with Kodak to acquire several master rolls annually. Smaller retailers that bulk-load Vision 3 film, though, may face substantial challenges as a result of this policy.

The reasoning behind this policy change appears to be linked to the recent ownership changes of Kodak Alaris, the entity responsible for marketing Kodak-branded consumer still films. Kodak Alaris, now under new ownership, may be interpreting the sale of motion picture film that is later respooled for still photography as a violation of their agreement with Eastman Kodak. This interpretation could be driving the pressure to enforce the new sales policy.

The implications of this development are particularly uncertain for major respooling companies like Cinestill, which have relied on purchasing bulk cinema film for resale in still photography formats. The future of these businesses and the broader impact on the film photography community will unfold as the policy continues to be implemented.