Frequently-asked. Questions - PDF Free Download

Frequently-asked Questions

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS 1 AN INTRODUCTION In a few words, what is EclairColor? EclairColor is a new digital high dynamic range color solution that combines a mastering process and the optimization of select projection system technologies already available on the market. What are the obvious benefits of using EclairColor? A significantly improved image quality that is visible to all exhibitors and audiences alike through better color fidelity, greater contrast, more brightness, sharper details and more depth. The result is a more immersive experience. The color range is much richer, particularly in high and low light situations: the gradients are much more refined, even in the darkest colors. The additional contrast helps reveal finer details even though the pixel resolution remains unchanged. EclairColor is like a stereoscopic film without 3D glasses. Why is EclairColor so strategic for cinema exhibitors? From their earliest days, cinemas have been on the cutting edge of image and sound innovation. However, there are increased challenges and competition with the arrival of new forms of home entertainment (UHD & HDR TVs, VR, etc.). Cinemas need to remain a unique premium experience that is accessible to all. Is EclairColor similar to HDR? Yes, it is a type of HDR. Currently, there are no HDR standards for cinema projection. It is a question that professional organizations such as SMPTE and DCI in the US, as well as the Commission Supérieure Technique de l image et du son (CST) in France, are actively investigating. 2

How long was the EclairColor development process? The EclairColor digital color solution is the culmination of eighteen months of extensive testing by Ymagis Group engineers. It is the result of a strong synergy between our teams at Eclair and CinemaNext and their collective expertise in the content services and exhibitor services sectors. 2 FOR DISTRIBUTORS Is EclairColor primarily the remastering of a DCP? The EclairColor digital color solution can be implemented at various stages in the content postproduction process. The images are shot as usual, so there is no change at the image capture level. Ideally, EclairColor mastering should be performed with primary files (rushes) to achieve the best results. However, the process can also be implemented at later stages of post-production and will still provide excellent results: remastering from a DSM ( Digital Source Master ) or DCDM ( Digital Cinema Distribution Master ) is possible when post has already been done on the standard format, and the outcome remains remarkably good. What is the color grading workflow like? The EclairColor workflow has been designed so that colorists can work on both versions (standard and EclairColor) simultaneously. The improved color range is largely due to the increased contrast. We always respect the original artistic intent of the film, and operate under the direction of the client. Do you use specific grading tools? The EclairColor solution is based on the AMPAS ACES workflow, which means it can be implemented with any grading tool on the market. We created a specific ODT (Output Device Transform) to match the customized projector profile. Who can oversee EclairColor mastering work? Eclair and Eclair-certified post-production facilities can provide EclairColor post-production services. 3

What is the source when remastering a film in EclairColor? Two image masters need to be produced in postproduction: one for EclairColor and one for standard screenings (DCI Compliant 2K/4K JPEG 2000). A film can be remastered in EclairColor from color-graded rushes, a DSM or a DCDM. Footage does not need to be shot using a specific camera. All current digital cameras are compatible. Can EclairColor be achieved from any image files? Yes, and the results are always very good, but the best results are obtained when grading is done with the original camera files. What are the main challenges when remastering with EclairColor? The time required to grade will vary significantly depending on the content itself. The main challenge will be content that includes VFX material, particularly when the VFX quality is not up to EclairColor standards. EclairColor, as with any HDR process, requires higher quality content from VFX operators. How long does it take to remaster a feature film in EclairColor from a DSM or DCDM? It varies according to the content but, on average, the EclairColor remastering process (working from a DCDM) for a feature film takes about 5 to 10 days. Are EclairColor DCPs DCI compliant? EclairColor is not entirely DCI compliant in terms of color encoding. However, it is entirely compliant on all essential levels, such as security and interoperability, so there is no impact on warranties. DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives) standards were established in 2005 at the start of the digital cinema revolution when digital projection technology was not as sophisticated as it is today. Projection systems technical capabilities have evolved significantly since that time. Does EclairColor use SMPTE DCPs? Yes, all EclairColor DCPs are SMPTE DCPs that use additional metadata. 4

Is EclairColor included in a standard DCP or is it necessarily provided on a separate DCP? It requires a separate DCP. Until an HDR DCP format is developed (and there is equipment able to read it) that includes both HDR and SDR versions in one package, the EclairColor version will be packaged in a separate DCP. Can this be handled via mapping? Not currently, but we will contribute to the SMPTE and DCI discussions to make that happen in the future. Are EclairColor DCPs encrypted and secure? Yes, they have the same format as a standard DCP, which ensures both secure and interoperable content regardless of server type. A KDM is required to run the content. That said, the EclairColor DCP has its own additional specificities and can only be projected using EclairColor technology. Can EclairColor be used in film restoration? The EclairColor solution can be applied to classic films regardless of the source. Unlike films that are currently in post-production, it is up to rights holders, directors and/or DPs to decide whether they wish to employ the technology or not. 3 FOR EXHIBITORS Does EclairColor require the installation of a specific projection system to work? At this time, it does. Cinemas need to be equipped with a Sony Digital Cinema 4K R510 or R515 projector, which provides a 1:8000 contrast ratio (on screen, the whitest white is 8,000 times brighter than the deepest black). The goal is to achieve 30 foot Lamberts (fl) on screen to meet EclairColor s technical specifications. 5

Does EclairColor work on any size screen? The current range of Sony Digital Cinema 4K (R510 and R515) projectors is compatible with any size screen up to 19 meters / 62-ft. wide. The double-stack systems work with screens 9-14 meters/ 29.5-46-ft. wide, while larger screens require quad configurations (4 projectors). The equipment includes an automatic alignment system. To play EclairColor content, these systems will require a software upgrade. What happens if I use an EclairColor DCP in a standard projector? The projector will not be able to play the EclairColor DCP. Standard projectors are therefore not in accordance with the superior quality of EclairColor technology. If my cinema is already equipped with a Sony projector, can I show films in EclairColor? It may be the case, but only if you are equipped with the most recent generation of projectors (R510/515) and if the projector is powerful enough to meet EclairColor s technical specifications. The projection system will also require a software upgrade to render it compatible with EclairColor. Can my usual system integrator install an EclairColor projector? If your integrator has undergone the EclairColor certification program, they will be able to provide you with an EclairColor-compatible setup. Otherwise, you will need to work with a CinemaNext-approved integrator. Will you send a technician to update the projector software? It will be necessary to update the projector software to add the EclairColor macros. Our technicians are currently working with Sony Electronics Japan s engineers on the software alterations to ensure the process is as smooth as possible. The software is key to the EclairColor digital color solution. 6

Will I still be able to run non-eclaircolor content once you ve installed the software? Absolutely. Once the EclairColor software has been installed, the projector can run both EclairColormastered films as well as standard content (DCP JPEG 2000 2K/4K fully DCI-compliant). There is no risk for exhibitors in adopting EclairColor technology (open system). The same applies to trailers and other pre-show content. Can I show 3D content in EclairColor? 3D is possible as a standard projection. For the moment, EclairColor grading is being used solely for 2D content. 3D tests are currently underway and we expect to have a full 3D solution within six months. In any case, the 3D experience will be improved thanks to better light and to the characteristics of the Sony projectors. Do I need to change my screen to show EclairColor content? That depends on the type of screen you already have. The decision will need to be made on a case-by-case basis with our experts, who are available to advise and answer any questions. Does EclairColor work with a 3D-type silver screen? We will allow EclairColor presentations in cinemas equipped with the most recent silver screen technology as long as they are certified by CinemaNext or a CinemaNext-approved integrator. We are currently working with Harkness Screens to provide the best screen solutions to cinema exhibitors running 3D content with passive systems. Do I need to change my theatre geometry if I adopt EclairColor? No but EclairColor does require that the inside of the auditorium be as dark and free of light artifacts as possible. For an optimal experience, it is preferable that the walls, ceiling and seats be black. 7