Join us for a day-long celebration as we pay homage to the remarkable 100-year journey of 16mm film in the quirky and gothic surrounds of St John’s Crypt, nestled in the heart of Bristol. Immerse yourself in the world of 16mm film through a series of workshops where you can explore the art of splicing, dicing, and projecting this iconic format. Take a journey into the absurd as we showcase a curated selection of classic avant-garde 16mm films. As the day unfolds, be prepared to be mesmerised by the unique live music  performance activations from Ambient techno artist Surgeons Girl. Join us where nostalgia meets innovation in celebration of the enduring legacy of 16mm film. 

100 Years of 16mm is part of Bristol UNESCO City of Film’s Summer Film Takeover. It is produced by Compass Presents as part of Cinema Rediscovered Festival, a Watershed project.

WORKSHOP:
LOADING 16MM

11.30am – 12.30am

*SOLD OUT*

From the European New Wave to the counter culture documentaries of North American Direct Cinema, this filmmaking required portable camera equipment that was designed for hand-held use. In this workshop join John Podpadec, Senior Lecturer in Filmmaking at UWE, to learn about the range of 16mm cameras that changed filmmaking, how to load them with film and how to operate them. We will explore the clockwork Bolex, the Canon Scoopic, a range of Arriflex reflex cameras and the Aaton LTR54 (the darling of documentary film).

WORKSHOP:
SLICE & PROJECT

3.30pm – 5pm &
12.30 – 1.30pm

3.30pm SOLD OUT12.30pm SOLD OUT

Despite it’s age, many artists, film makers and artisans are finding that the creative potential for this medium is far from exhausted and in fact 16mm has had a bit of a revival in recent decades. 

Try your hand at splicing, dicing and projecting your own 16mm films with analogue aficionado and founder of The CUBE Graham Hogg. There will be films, splicers and projectors. Bring as much manual dexterity as you can muster and a little bit of patience!

LIVE:
SURGEONS GIRL

2pm, 6pm & 8pm

Book Now

Witness analog hardware lover and DJ Surgeons Girl in a 30-minute live performance activation, inspired by 16mm. This unique experience combines analog and digital elements, reimagining Norman McLaren and Helen Biggar’s powerful animated anti-war agit-prop piece, Hell Unltd (1936), with thanks to the BFI National Archive.

Surgeons Girl harnesses the power of ambient techno to re-envision the film, infusing it with a vibrant soundscape that revitalises the 16mm format. 

LIVE:
SCREENINGS

Drop in from 11am

Throughout the day we will be screening an enticing selection of 16mm shorts, experimental titles, and Bristolian archive footage. Get set to be enchanted by the works of talented local filmmakers, student productions, and those who have an unwavering passion for the flicker of the projector.

Screening & Panel: Vicky Smith and Jasmine Butt | 16mm Artist’s Experimental Film – 7pm

Join Nachleben’s Graeme Hogg  in conversation with leading experimental film artist, academic and co-founder of Bristol Experimental expanded Film Vicky Smith and musician, synth builder and AV artist Jasmine Butt from Young Echo. Together they will explore the potential of 16mm film from a personal perspective, showing works that have been made using an array of methodologies. Expect surprising insights about the versatility of this delicious medium, and an opportunity to ask questions of our panel.

Book Here

Event Information

100 Years of 16mm is a free event taking place on Sunday 30th July 2023. If you would like to attend a workshop or watch Surgeons Girl’s live performances it is essential that you book via the links above. Due to the nature of the venue, there is a small capacity on each workshop and performance so we recommend booking early.

You do not need a ticket to watch the rolling films throughout the day. Simply turn up on the day to visit the Crypt and take in some 16mm and archive titles.

The address for the event is; St John’s Church, Broad St, Bristol BS1 2EZ. However entrance to the Crypt is via the ‘small door’ found on Nelson street. There will be signage directing you on the day.

Accessibility 
Whilst we endeavour to make our experiences as accessible as possible, the venue of this event (St John’s Crypt) is a historic venue with steep steps and tight doorways. This event is therefore not accessible via a wheelchair. If you have any other additional access needs and are concerned about accessing the venue, please contact us on [email protected].

Please note: Please be aware that media (including video, photos or audio) may be collected at this event. If you do not wish to be included, please stand aside and/or make yourself known to the photographer or videographer. Media collected at the event will only be used in relevant communications by the council and Compass Presents. 

The History Of 16MM

16mm film has a rich and captivating history that dates back to the early 1920s. It was developed by Eastman Kodak as an affordable alternative to the larger and more expensive 35mm film format. Initially used primarily by amateurs and enthusiasts, 16mm film gained popularity due to its versatility and portability. In the 1930s, it found its way into the professional filmmaking industry, with directors like Jean Renoir and Luis Buñuel embracing the format for its intimate and documentary-like qualities. During World War II, 16mm film played a crucial role in capturing raw footage on the battlefront. The post-war era witnessed further advancements, including the introduction of colour film stock and synchronised sound, making 16mm a viable option for independent filmmakers. In the 1960s and ’70s, avant-garde filmmakers, such as Stan Brakhage, pushed the boundaries of the medium, exploring experimental techniques and personal narratives. With the rise of digital technology in the late 20th century, 16mm film faced challenges, yet it continues to be cherished by artists, archivists, and cinephiles for its unique aesthetic and historical significance.

If you’re interested in learning more about 16mm film, the British Film Institute (BFI) has put together this brilliant guide.