Why Some Modern Films Choose 35mm Over Digital

In an age where digital filmmaking dominates the industry, it's easy to assume that most films are shot with the latest digital technology. But some directors are opting for a different route—choosing the distinct look and feel of 35mm film.

These films weren’t shot digitally. They were made on 35mm—real film, real grain, real texture. It’s a choice that isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about a deliberate creative decision that adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the final product.

Films like Licorice Pizza, The Lighthouse, Oppenheimer, and La La Land are all examples of modern filmmaking that chose film on purpose. These directors embraced the physical nature of 35mm, knowing it would give their movies a tactile quality that digital simply can't replicate. The grain of the film, the way it captures light and shadow, the slight imperfections—it's all part of the experience.

Why does it matter? Because 35mm film carries a unique texture and warmth. It adds character to a film, giving it a timeless feel, even if the story is set in the present day. It’s not just about aesthetics, though—it's about how the medium can evoke emotion and create a connection between the audience and what’s on screen.

In a world where technology evolves quickly, these filmmakers are choosing to slow down and take their time, both in how they tell their stories and how they capture them. And that's something that feels worth celebrating.