International. The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, SMPTE, is producing a documentary on the history of image motion technology, known as Motion-Imaging, to celebrate the Society's centennial anniversary in 2016.
SMPTE has named Randall Dark as producer. Howard Lukk, former vice president of production technology at The Walt Disney Studios, will serve as director on the initial project. Chris Kenneally, who is best known as the writer and director of the acclaimed documentary "Side by Side," produced by Justin Szlasa and Keanu Reeves, has already completed the film's initial treatment.
"For this project we specifically selected a team with experience in both production and first-hand knowledge of the innovations and inventions that have influenced the art and science of Motion-Imaging in the industry ecosystem," said SMPTE Documentary Committee Chair and Former President Peter Lude. "I am very excited that the unique personal perspective that Randall and Howard will bring to the project will bring this exciting story to a large general audience, as well as moviegoers, history buffs, and industry experts."
The documentary, which is known by the working title of "moving images," will explore the excitement surrounding the development of image motion technology from the turn of the 20th century to the present, while asking about what the future has in store. Through interviews with leading filmmakers, historians, entrepreneurs and engineers, the documentary will investigate the influence that art and science have on each other.
"SMPTE has played a vital role in advancing movies and television for nearly 100 years," Dark said. "I'm so honored because I have the opportunity to help tell the story of the people who literally invented the technology I've built my career on."
The film exposes the human element behind epic engineering feats and technological achievements, examining the ways in which the artistic element of content creation has advanced. The documentary will serve as a celebration of the ingenuity, invention, and personalities that are responsible for many important works of art while demonstrating how SMPTE's important work in education and industry standards has guided technology.
SMPTE is now looking for supporters to fund the project to fulfill this intention. The Society has launched a non-profit crowdfunding campaign verified with Indiegogo.
