9.5mm is the film gauge with the sprocket holes down the middle. It sounds strange but leaves as much room for picture as conventional 16mm. Championed by Pathé it was the first widely adopted home-movie gauge. Its film charger system was an early marvel allowing quick and simple loading of film - just like slipping in videotape. Once thought to be almost defunct the gauge is being championed by an increasing number of film enthusiasts. Lee Mannering takes a look at this fascinating scene.

Many film makers are coming to nine-five as it is the only film gauge that offers the new Fuji Velvia film stock on spools or charger re-loads. 9.5mm offers similar pictures to that of 16mm, and new equipment is becoming available all the time now. A new magnetic projector is coming from France shortly and has been demonstrated recently. Modern projectors, new and second-hand, are available from a well-known company in Buckingham, and many cameras and other related items are on offer. Commercial films are available in the UK also, as is editing and splicing equipment.

Group 9.5mm hosts many Festivals for the gauge. Festivals also take place around the world, especially in France.

The group also publishes a magazine for its members "9.5" and further details are obtainable from 24 Sandpiper Close, Bridgewater Somerset. TA6 5QT.

GROUP 9-5 contact: Ken Valentine, Stables Lodge, 111 Elstree Road, Bushey Heath, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 4EG .

Visit their website.

"Do infants enjoy infancy as much as adults enjoy adultery?"

Page updated on 24 September 2008

Authors' views are not necessarily those of The Institute of Amateur Cinematographers

Free JavaScripts provided
by The JavaScript Source