Movies for TV - Early Television Foundation

EDITING AND CONTINUITY 197
on top of the scraped and cemented lower piece on the left. The
double emulsion
only time that this does not apply is in splicing
films such as Technicolor and other double emulsion film where
the emulsions are on both sides to provide the layers of color. In
these cases, it is necessary to scrape the underside of the top
well.
film as
After the emulsion has been removed from the under piece
(which the author prefers to do dry, although there is no objection
to dampening the film to aid in removing the emulsion), it is a
good idea to apply a little film cement and then wipe it off at once.
This roughens the surface and improves the splice. This also is
an aid if done on the glossy underside of the upper film. After
the final application of cement the two films are held tightly
together by the clamps on the splicer. The joint should be allowed
about ten seconds to ensure a good, sound join. Although most
cements set in six seconds, it is better to give it a chance to do a
good job.
The secret of a good splice is cleanliness. This cannot be over-
emphasized, for if any emulsion is left on the film in the splice it
will weaken the join and cause a break sooner or later. At the same
time it is most important to exercise the utmost care when scraping
around the sprocket holes. It is very easy to tear the film here
for it is very narrow, but it is also essential to remove all traces of
emulsion.
As far as the choice of cut style, it does not matter much. The
diagonal cut made with some of the Bell & Howell equipment is
stronger than the usual straight line join, but the extra length of
the former precludes its use for television or professional use since
the splice is bound to show on the screen. As a matter of fact, it is
not strictly correct to refer to a splice as a joint. It is a weld since
the cement actually melts the two film surfaces and allows them
to flow together like solder on a wire connection or welding. In
any case it does not pay to buy cheap splicers; only the best is
good enough for anything connected with films for television. If
cheap, inferior equipment is bought, it will either wear out too
quickly or give poor results which reflect on the staff of the or-