What preparations are necessary to ensure a clean and unnoticed projector changeover for the audience? The technical equipment and functions of the film projectors, the sound unit, and the markings within the film print, which are necessary for this type of film screening, will be explained.
Starting from this, fundamental aspects of analog image and sound reproduction will be explained. How does a Maltese cross work? How is the optical sound scanned? How is the motor controlled to vary the speed, for example, for silent films? And, of course, the central activity: how is the film inserted into the projector? The goal is for all participants to be at a machine as often as possible and practice handling film material directly.
Four sections are reserved exclusively for practical insertion work on the projector.
Practical and theoretical instruction units will alternate.
One practical morning will focus on copy inspection, focusing on preparatory tasks such as format determination, condition assessment, and possible damage. The subsequent theoretical excursus will illuminate the aesthetic aspects: what makes a good copy? Are there situations in which a digital medium might be preferable? What degree of wear and tear is acceptable? The highlight is a short presentation of the 70mm format. However, there will be no hands-on training here.
Day 3 is reserved for further questions, such as the future of analog projector technology. Will we return to mechanical drives in the future? Is there a chance of repairing circuit board-controlled projectors? Does a cross-cinematheque database or exchange platform for available film copies make sense?
Trainers
Anselm Heller and BodoPagels
Both have over 30 years’ experience in working with and projecting all available film formats for over 30 years. They work as projectionists at the Kino Arsenal.
Course Information
Participants
Six projectionists working in cinemas or festivals, with prior knowledge of analogue projection techniques
Date and Venue
22–24 June 2026
Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Arsenal Cinema
Plantagenstr. 30, 13347 Berlin
Application Deadline
July 1, 2026
Application Requirements
Please include your CV and a short description of your professional experience, specifying the types of equipment and projectors you are familiar with and currently use.
The number of participants is limited. Anyone interested can apply at projectionists@arsenal-berlin.de
Participation Fee (including lunch)
250€
180€ reduced (please provide reasons and documentation)
Languages
The course language is English. Questions and additional explanations can be provided in German if needed.
Contact
Angelika Ramlow | Project coordination
projectionists(at)arsenal-berlin.de
With the support of
