Glossary N-Z
Negative
Element which contains the reverse picture information and used to make positive copies during the printing process.
Perforations
Regularly spaced punched holes throughout the length of motion picture film used for film transport and location for exposure. A 35mm film can have 4 perforations on each edge.
Polyester
A non-organic transparent and elastic base for cinematograph film. This film base material has superior strength and tear characteristics and unaffected by temperature changes or humidity, it can be well conserved.
Positive
A print from a negative or an internegative produced made by a photomechanical process. It can be a print for projection purpose or an intermediate for conservation purpose (interpositive).
Print
A copy (positive) of the film aimed to be projected in theater.
Printing
Laboratory process to duplicate motion picture films from positive or negative materials.
Projection
Action of projecting upon a screen a series of image and sound which represents the cinematographic performance.
Preservation
Set of complex practices which include the conservation, the restoration and the duplication in order to protect the films and to ensure permanent accessibility of the moving image and sound records.
Restoration
It is a complex process as much artistic as technical and which requires the most accomplished historical documentation related to the creative context of the film. This process should lead to the restitution of the art form as nearly as possible to its original character and condition.
Technicolor (process)
Name from a trademark which was specialized in a series of color processes since the 1920’s and manufactured until the 70’s.
Vinegar syndrome
Term used to describe the chemical reaction that goes on during the deterioration of cellulose triacetate film support. High temperature and humidity are the two factors affecting the rate of deterioration. The degraded film gives off acetic acid, which producing a vinegar odor.