PBS Specials Season 3 Episode 37 Side by Side, The Science, Art & Impact of Digital Cinema

Side by Side, The Science, Art & Impact of Digital Cinema is the 37th episode of PBS Specials season 3. This documentary presents a comprehensive exploration of the digital revolution in filmmaking. The episode delves into the science, art, and impact of digital cinema, showcasing the profound ways in which digital technology has transformed the art of filmmaking.

Throughout the episode, interviews with some of the most respected filmmakers in the industry provides insight into the innovative techniques and digital tools used to create the stunning visuals and sounds that are possible with digital technology. Side by Side features interviews with directors like James Cameron, David Fincher, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Soderbergh, as well as cinematographers, editors, sound designers, and many other behind-the-scenes creatives who have been at the forefront of the digital revolution.

The episode takes a historical perspective, tracing the evolution of digital cinema from its early beginnings in the 1980s, through its rapid advancements in the 1990s and 2000s. The show explains how the early adoption of digital technology sparked controversy among traditionalists, who believed that digital cameras and other equipment lacked the depth and richness of traditional film. However, as digital cameras became increasingly sophisticated, filmmakers began to take advantage of the freedom and flexibility that digital offered, leading to some of the most groundbreaking and visually stunning films of our time.

Side by Side also explores the democratization of filmmaking that digital technology has brought about. With the costs of digital cameras and other equipment dropping significantly, more and more independent filmmakers are able to make films with the same level of quality and visual impact seen in major Hollywood productions. This accessibility has led to a proliferation of innovative and boundary-pushing films that may not have been possible in the pre-digital era.

Perhaps most significantly, Side by Side examines the way that digital technology has fundamentally changed the viewing experience. From the way that films are shot and edited, to the way that audiences consume movies (with the rise of streaming platforms and virtual reality technology), digital has transformed the way that we interact with cinema. The show provides a thought-provoking look at the ways that digital technology is both shaping and reflecting our broader cultural landscape.

Overall, Side by Side, The Science, Art & Impact of Digital Cinema is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolving art of filmmaking, as well as the broader implications of digital technology on our lives. With stunning visuals, insightful interviews, and a comprehensive examination of the digital revolution in cinema, this episode provides a compelling and thought-provoking look at the ways that technology is transforming the art and industry of filmmaking.