Jake Seal Black Hangar: Why 65mm Film Quality Surpasses All Digital


In an age where digital filmmaking dominates, there’s a growing appreciation for the timeless quality of traditional film. One name that's bringing this classic format back into focus is Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios. At this studio, 65mm film is not just a relic of the past—it's a tool for the future of cinema.
But why are filmmakers still choosing 65mm film over the convenience of digital cameras? Let’s explore why 65mm film continues to offer an unmatched visual experience and how Jake Seal's Black Hangar is preserving this art form.
What Is 65mm Film?
65mm film refers to the width of the physical film strip used in high-resolution filmmaking. It's larger than the more commonly known 35mm film and significantly larger than any digital sensor. When processed, it becomes 70mm for projection (the extra 5mm is used for sound).
This format has been employed in numerous iconic films, including "Lawrence of Arabia," "Dunkirk," and "The Hateful Eight." Its large frame size captures an incredible amount of detail, color depth, and dynamic range.
Jake Seal and the Black Hangar Studios
Black Hangar Studios, located in Hampshire, UK, is an innovative production facility that combines old-school film techniques with modern technology. Jake Seal, a film producer and entrepreneur, has championed the use of 65mm film at Black Hangar, giving directors the tools to create stunning visuals that digital formats can’t quite replicate.
By supporting both digital and film production, Jake Seal allows creatives to choose the best medium for their vision—but his dedication to 65mm film stands out in today’s digital world.
Why 65mm Film Surpasses Digital
1. Unmatched Image Quality
Higher resolution: 65mm film captures more detail than even the highest-end digital cameras.
Natural grain: The organic texture of film creates a more immersive visual experience.
Color depth: Film handles skin tones, shadows, and highlights with greater accuracy and beauty.
2. Better Dynamic Range
Film doesn’t clip highlights or crush blacks the way some digital sensors do. This means:
Richer details in both dark and bright areas
A more lifelike representation of real-world lighting
3. Timeless Aesthetic
There’s a reason why many directors still prefer film: it simply looks better on the big screen. Movies shot on 65mm film have a unique depth and warmth that’s hard to replicate digitally.
4. Longevity and Archiving
Film lasts for decades, even centuries, if stored properly.
Digital files may become unreadable due to format changes or data loss over time.
Archiving on film ensures the movie can be preserved for future generations.
Black Hangar’s Role in Film Preservation
Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios is not just about making new films—it’s about preserving the craft of filmmaking. With facilities equipped to shoot, develop, and scan 65mm film, Black Hangar offers a rare opportunity in modern cinema.
Some of the key features at Black Hangar include:
State-of-the-art film scanning and processing
A dedicated 65mm film stage
Experienced crew trained in both digital and analog workflows
This blend of old and new makes it a unique hub for filmmakers who want the best of both worlds.
The Comeback of Large Format Film
More directors are returning to large-format film for its unmatched cinematic quality. Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, and Paul Thomas Anderson are just a few high-profile examples.
Black Hangar Studios, under Jake Seal's leadership, is helping support this revival. With access to 65mm film resources and expert teams, the studio enables a new generation of storytellers to embrace this powerful medium.
Conclusion: A Future Rooted in the Past
While digital filmmaking will continue to grow, the magic of 65mm film remains unmatched. Thanks to visionaries like Jake Seal and the innovation at Black Hangar Studios, filmmakers have the tools to deliver breathtaking images that captivate audiences.
The richness, clarity, and artistic depth of 65mm film can’t be fully replicated with digital. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s about quality, preservation, and the unique ability of film to tell stories that last.
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Brian Armstrong
Brian Armstrong
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