Cinematographer
Die Verleihkopie ist das Endprodukt meiner fotografischen Arbeit. Hier sehe ich, wie meine Belichtungsentscheidungen im Kino aussehen – der ultimative Test meiner Arbeit.
Final positive film print manufactured in quantity for theatrical distribution and exhibition – struck from the internegative or digital intermediate, incorporating all color timing, optical effects, and audio tracks, designed for projection in commercial cinemas.
What is a Release Print?
A Release Print (Verleihkopie) is the final film print for cinema projection. These positive prints are produced from the internegative or Digital Intermediate in the required quantities and distributed to cinemas worldwide.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Exhibition print for screening |
| Source Material | Internegative/DI |
| Quantity | As needed |
| Purpose | Cinema distribution |
Production Chain
| Step | Element |
|---|---|
| 1. Answer Print | First reference copy |
| 2. Approval | Director/DP sign-off |
| 3. Internegatives | Duplicating master |
| 4. Release Prints | Mass production |
Print Types
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Premiere Print | Highest quality |
| First-Run | For initial release |
| Standard | Regular distribution print |
| Budget | For second-run |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Standard |
|---|---|
| Format | 35mm/70mm |
| Sound | Optical/Digital |
| Length | Feature-Length |
| Perforation | Standard/CinemaScope |
Film Stock
| Stock | Properties |
|---|---|
| Kodak Vision | Industry Standard |
| Fuji Eterna | Alternative |
| Low-Contrast | Optimized for projection |
| ISO | Typically 3-6 |
Sound Formats
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| Optical | Analog light sound |
| Dolby SR | Noise reduction |
| Dolby Digital | 5.1 Surround |
| DTS | Separate CD sound |
| SDDS | Sony 8-track |
Quality Control
| Check | Standard |
|---|---|
| Density | Consistent |
| Color | Match to Answer Print |
| Scratches | None |
| Splices | Minimal, invisible |
Release Strategies
| Strategy | Print Count |
|---|---|
| Limited | 5-100 prints |
| Platform | 100-500 |
| Wide | 500-3000 |
| Saturation | 3000+ |
Cost Factors
| Element | Influence |
|---|---|
| Length | Per-foot price |
| Quantity | Volume discount |
| Sound | Format surcharge |
| Timing | Rush fees |
Print Logistics
| Aspect | Handling |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Shipping cases |
| Transport | Temperature-controlled |
| Inspection | Upon arrival |
| Storage | Climate-controlled |
Life Cycle
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| First-Run | 2-12 weeks |
| Second-Run | Variable |
| Archive | Long-term |
| Destruction | Per contract |
Wear and Tear
| Problem | Cause |
|---|---|
| Scratches | Projector contact |
| Density Shift | Repeated projection |
| Splices | Repairs |
| Dirt | Handling |
International Distribution
| Region | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Language | Subtitles/Dubbing |
| Format | Regionally different |
| Censorship | Country-specific |
| Timing | Release windows |
Archiving
| Aspect | Standard |
|---|---|
| Selection | Best copy |
| Storage | Cold storage |
| Inspection | Regularly |
| Preservation | Long-term stability |
Digital Transition
| Aspect | Change |
|---|---|
| DCP | Replaces print |
| Cost | Significantly lower |
| Logistics | Simpler |
| Quality | More consistent |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| QC every print | Quality assurance |
| Proper Handling | Lifespan |
| Documentation | Tracking |
| Archive Original | Preservation |
Today
In the digital age, release prints have been largely replaced by DCPs (Digital Cinema Packages). The production of film prints is now limited to a few special cases – archiving, festivals with analog projection, and nostalgic premieres. However, the art of print production remains relevant for restorations and the appreciation of cinematic heritage.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Verleihkopien sind das, was das Publikum sieht. Die Qualität dieser Kopien bestimmt, wie mein Film weltweit wahrgenommen wird – jede Kopie muss den Answer Print-Standard halten.
Producer
Verleihkopien sind eine signifikante Investition. Die Stückzahl hängt von der Veröffentlichungsstrategie ab – von wenigen für Limited Release bis Tausende für Wide Release.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Verleihkopie / Kinokopie / Theaterkopie"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?