TECH FILM LABS
As shot-on-film productions dominate awards season this year, we take a tour of the labs at the forefront, combining traditional processing craft with modern digital workflows
WORDS OLIVER WEBB
H alf of the best picture nominees at the 2026 Academy Awards were shot on film, with Bugonia , Sentimental Value , One Battle After Another, Marty Supreme and Sinners all showcasing a commitment to celluloid. The latter three also earned nominations in the best cinematography category. With filmmakers continuing to champion the format, we explore how film is preserved and pushed forward by the combined efforts of industry leaders. THE FUTURE IS FILM Founded in 1892 by George Eastman and Henry A Strong, Kodak has been
synonymous with film since 1889, when it introduced the very first commercial and transparent roll of film. Today, the company still plays a central role in sustaining and evolving the medium. Kodak is currently working closely with a major film and media institution to open a new photochemical lab and scanning centre. Training programmes developed in conjunction with Kodak will foster development and expertise in a wide range of areas, such as chemical development, darkroom work and film handling – as well as crucial soft skills in energy management and technology and advancements in preservation.
In London, Kodak’s lab continues to function not only as a commercial operation but as a space for innovation and skills training. A close alliance with machine manufacturers led to the recent launch of a completely new film cleaning system, which is now commercially available. Kodak also works extensively with labs and preservation institutions across Europe, such as the BFI, CNC, L’Immagine Ritrovata and TransPerfect Media. “Our mission across the motion picture industry right now is to support filmmakers directly with film stock and, secondly, to support the ecosystem that supports the workflow,” begins Vanessa Bendetti, vice president and head of motion picture at Kodak. In markets where services have historically been limited, Kodak has stepped in to help stabilise the local infrastructure, while staying committed to backing up independent labs rather than fully verticalising operations. “It is incredibly important for the continuation of the medium of film that there are multiple players within the ecosystem. That’s been our overall approach since I’ve been here.”
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