Hey there

[Nick Robinson]

Hey all, just wanted to say hi. I'm looking into starting a film print collection because of my wonderful experiences at the Alamo Drafthouse's Weird Wednesdays and from QT-Fest. So, I'm looking around...

[Dave Harris]

Welcome to our group Nick, you've come to the right place.

[Linda Haluska]

Welcome to the family Nick!!!

[James Wheeler]

If you are starting a 16mm collection, do your homework before buying any films. Most mistakes made with this hobby can be expensive. I suggest tracking all of the films on ebay for a while and ask question both of the seller and here regarding the description of the film. Some of these guys will weasel word the description and you will be getting something totally different than what you want. Learn the different film types and what could be happening to the film (Eastman). Same thing with the projectors. I bought five junkers before I got one that worked good.

[Evan Chase]

Absolutely! It can really spoil the enjoyment of the hobby if you get junk instead of good things to show--eBay is rife with junk film sellers--there are good guys, too, but the main criteria for film is nice clean condition without faded color or vinegar smell.

[James Wheeler]

If it's a film that I really want, I can live with it turning pink. I got a blue lense and it makes the film watchable.

[Aaron Lea]

I agree James, it isn't really an easy hobby to jump into, and the information out there is a tad sparse. There is a lot of trial and error with your purchases, and no matter how much you can research, there is a hands on element that is needed to know what a bad film condition really looks like up close.

[Dan Matson]

Welcome aboard Nick!
Most of the information you'll ever need is right here on the forum.
Although we all don't like to admit it, one of best places to find bargains is still on eBay.
With a little careful reading of the description of a film you can find a bargain out there.
I usually search eBay every day or as I call it "trolling for treasures" and I have compiled a list of seller buzz words and phrases you should be aware of.

"I haven't watch the whole film..." Translation: I'm just too lazy to check the print out but I want top dollar anyway.

"I found this in my Grandfathers attic" Translation: I don't have a clue what I have here but since Grandpa owned it, it must be worth a fortune!

"16mm tapes for sale." Translation: I'm stuck in a time warp and not to mention totally clueless.

"I don't know what the film is but it comes on a beautiful Art Decco Brown reel." Translation: I know it's junk but I hope I can con a stupid interior decorator into paying big bucks for this piece of crap.

"The print is red and smells of vinegar low opening bid of $500.00" Translation: I am not stupid, but I think P.T. Barnum was right. There is a sucker born every minute.

"Mint condition with the usual lines and scratches for a print this old."
Translation: I want to be somewhat honest but I hope you don't read past Mint condition.

And my favorite...

"My projector broke so I can't view the film but it looked good when I last watched it." Translation: I haven't watched this thing in 20 years and it's taking up room in the crawl space under the front porch!

To wrap this up I have to say there are some goodies to be found. It all boils down to how much you want to gamble. Start slow pick up a couple of "B" movies to get your feet wet, then when you feel comfortable go ahead and try for the "A" list titles.

[David Brooks]

Hi Nick, Welcome!

Dan has boiled it down to buying films and the descriptions.

Descriptions is the major problem. In adequate or silly descriptions plague the hobby. Even some selling here on this and other forums do not disclose things you want to know about a film.

One key item is to determine, in advance, the refund/return policy. If there isn't one (and no reply is the same), avoid. Use credit card if at all possible. On Ebay, use of PayPal provides a means of using your credit card. Consumer laws do protect you on bad deals where your credit card was used. If the seller does not use PayPal or any means of using a credit card, then best to ask questions and be as positive before you go through with a deal.

There are a number of threads on this forum about Ebay and Paypal. A lot becry both, but the truth is, they are there and used by many (including myself). Ebay has its (maybe more than) fair share of scam artists out there. Check the threads on bad Ebay sellers.

It is a fun hobby and can be very enjoyable.

[T. Shane Doyle]

Let's not frighten the guy too much...

I have only been ripped off once, nine years into the hobby...
I sent someone film before having been paid. Never again, unless I know the person.

[Russell Harnden]

Dan has boiled it down to buying films and the descriptions.... In adequate or silly descriptions plague the hobby.
Hello Nick, and welcome aboard!

Something to remember as well when looking for and purchasing used films is that the description of the condition of the film can be VERY subjective. A well-worn print full of splices and scratches that might be acceptable to a seller who has a tolerance for this condition and who lists the film as being in "good used condition" could be completely unacceptable to a buyer who is expecting a "low-use" print with only a few flaws and finds that it is almost unwatchable. The best thing to do is to try and get from the seller the most complete and accurate description possible, and then still have the option to return the print if it is not up to your standards.

Besides Ebay, you can also find some fine films for sale here on the Forum under the "Films For Sale/Trade" section. Also, if you're looking for a specific title, please don't hesitate to list it under the "Wanted to Buy/Trade" section.

Again, welcome to the Forum and ENJOY!

Russ