Side by Side (2012) - Review

If you love film and you love technology, then this is a movie for you.  Side by Side is a documentary by master filmmaker Keanu Reeves (yes, Bill and Ted's Keanu Reeves) that delves into the debate over the future of film, specifically the conversion from traditional photochemical film and the impact of digital film as its replacement.  Dozens of well-known directors, actors and cinematographers speak passionately about cinema as a whole, revealing emotional,connection to  for the .  Movies

The film goes into great detail exploring the technological advances that made digital film possible, why traditional film is so beloved  and the reasons many are excited about the digital future.  The conservative in me is scared that one day film as we knew it will completely disappear, taking with it 100 years of film tradition.  The more inquisitive side of me is excited to see where this leads and what creative opportunities it will create for filmmakers of the future

This film was right up my alley.  If you are a student of film history or just curious I recommend it.  For others that love film you can watch just to watch shot after shot of some of beautifully shot films as well as learn a little something.

8 out of 10 stars


Currently streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime.