The world of film collecting, once deemed illegal, is experiencing a resurgence, as enthusiasts celebrate the 50th anniversary of the British Film Collectors Convention (BFCC). This annual gathering, set to take place in Oxted, Surrey, on Saturday, marks a significant milestone for a hobby that was once considered illicit. The story of film collecting's evolution is a fascinating one, and it's one that highlights the changing legal landscape and the enduring appeal of physical media.
A Hobby's Dark Past
Mark Stuckey, a 70-year-old collector from Cromer, Norfolk, reminisces about the days when owning a 35mm print was a crime. "If we go back just a couple of decades, a private collector owning a 35mm print would have been in prison," he told the BBC. "Technically, that print was not owned by him, and if he had acquired it, he had technically stolen it." This led to a clandestine environment where early silent films, an integral part of our cultural heritage, were at risk of being lost forever.
The Convention's Revival
The BFCC, which began in 1976, provides a legal and safe space for collectors to buy, sell, trade, and view films. However, the convention faced a significant challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic. John Clancy, the event's organizer, expressed concern, stating, "It looked like the convention was killed." Yet, the BFCC persevered, returning in 2023, and this resurgence sparked a new initiative: Film is Fabulous, a charitable trust dedicated to recovering lost films.
The Allure of Film Collecting
Clancy, a 61-year-old collector from Wiltshire, shares a personal connection to the hobby. "I've been fascinated by the moving image since my father purchased a cinecamera when I was two," he said. "As soon as I was old enough and earning pocket money, I started buying films." One of his prized possessions is the film 'Alien,' purchased on Super 8 film in the early 1990s for £300. The appeal of film collecting extends beyond legal considerations; it offers a unique experience. Stuckey emphasizes, "The hobby changes every time you put something different on, creating a lovely atmosphere to share." He also highlights the superior color range and the natural quality of film, which cannot be replicated by digital processes.
A Resurgence in Popularity
The resurgence of film collecting is not limited to the BFCC. Stuckey notes, "What goes around comes around, just like vinyl." Even young people are embracing Super 8 projectors and film, finding joy in a medium that was once considered outdated. This renewed interest in physical media is a testament to its enduring appeal and the desire for a more tangible, immersive experience.
In conclusion, the story of film collecting's legal journey and its resurgence is a fascinating one. It highlights the power of community, the allure of physical media, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. As the BFCC celebrates its 50th anniversary, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, what was once outlawed can become a cherished hobby, offering a unique and captivating experience for enthusiasts of all ages.
