From Grain to Pixel: The Archival Life of Film in Transition, Third Revised Edition

Giovanna Fossati's book "From Grain to Pixel" explores the transition from analog to digital film and its implications for filmmaking and film archiving. It raises questions about the status of physical film and the practice of archival preservation, restoration, and presentation. The revised edition includes a new theoretical framework and an additional case study, covering the latest developments in the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2018
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

Giovanna Fossati's book, "From Grain to Pixel," delves into the transformative journey from analog to digital film, exploring its far-reaching implications for filmmaking and film archiving. Fossati reflects on the theoretical conceptualization of the medium itself, raising profound questions about the status of physical film and the practices involved in its archival preservation, restoration, and presentation. By examining the discourse on film's ontology, the book seeks to bridge the gap between film archiving and academic research. It analyzes how different interpretations of what film is affect the role and practices of film archives. Fossati's innovative approach involves proposing a novel theorization of film archival practice, aimed at stimulating a renewed dialogue between film scholars and film archivists. This revised edition, published nearly a decade after its initial release, incorporates several significant updates. It includes a new general introduction, a new conclusion, and extensive revisions to each chapter. Additionally, a novel theoretical framework and an additional case study have been added to enhance the book's content.

The book's central theme revolves around the evolution of film technology and its impact on the preservation and dissemination of cinematic heritage. Fossati begins by tracing the historical development of film from its inception in the late 19th century to the advent of digital technology in the late 20th century. She highlights the technological advancements that have shaped the way films are produced, distributed, and consumed. Fossati then delves into the implications of this transition for film archiving. She questions the continued relevance of physical film as a medium for preservation and argues that digital technologies offer more efficient and sustainable solutions for archiving and preserving films. Fossati explores the challenges and opportunities associated with digital archiving, including the need for robust metadata management, the preservation of film quality, and the long-term accessibility of digital files. She also discusses the ethical considerations surrounding the digitization of films, including issues related to copyright, ownership, and cultural heritage preservation. Throughout the book, Fossati employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from film history, aesthetics, and archival science. She incorporates theoretical frameworks from various fields, such as media studies, information science, and cultural heritage management, to analyze the complex issues surrounding film archiving. Fossati's writing is accessible and engaging, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience. She weaves together personal anecdotes, historical examples, and theoretical insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing film archiving in the digital age. "From Grain to Pixel" is an essential resource for film scholars, archivists, and anyone interested in the preservation and dissemination of cinematic heritage. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the transition from analog to digital film, exploring its theoretical, technological, and ethical implications. The book provides valuable insights into the current state of film archiving and offers practical recommendations for preserving and promoting the value of film as a cultural asset.

Weight: 940g
Dimension: 161 x 234 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463725002
Edition number: 0