HD cams for Theatrical Release

[isho]

Im not quite sure if this particular post belongs in this subject, but I didn't know where else to put it.

I'm a mostly inexperienced Mexican film-maker about to embark on his first long-feature film. Medium budget by Mexican standards, but definitely (extremely) low budget by First World Country standards (namely the U.S.). Up until I read some articles on different sites, I was positive that my best camera choice was the new Panasonic HVX200, but now a few new contenders have come across as posibilities: JVC GY-HD100U and the Canon XL H1.

So my question is quite bold so to say: Which one should I go for considering I'm aiming for a theatrical release?

My budget is enough for two cameras, and maybe a set of not so expensive lenses. Its probably enough to rent a good DVC-PRO HD camera, but I'm inclined on having two cameras on set. I will probably sell the equipment after I'm done with the shooting, confident that it will be a good move financially. But that's besides the point. I'm not a highly technical guy, and the DP hasn't worked with any of these "low priced" HD camcorders. We are shooting in july, and we already have one of Mexico's top actresses attached to the project, so we have a fair chance of making it, comercially speaking.

Some comments I read on the Panasonic HVX200 caught my attention, especially those regarding poor theatrical screening. As far as color goes, I thought of it as an excellent choice. Noise? Well, I don't know, depends if its bearable. But no theatrical release? I don't think its a possibility for me considering the project.

The JVC GY-HD100U seemed like the better choice then, at least according to what those guys on Fox's show 24 had to say. But some people dont seem to give it all that much credit because of its codec. The JVC homepage mentions something about an upgrade, but I dont think it fixes that problem. I also read that the quality of image was mostly achieved by using quite expensive lenses. Unless i rent them, they are probably out of my league. Would I be able to achieve good quality images with less expensive lenses? And most importantly, would I be able to show my product on a theatre?

And last, the Canon XL H1, which seems to be some people's choice for theatrical releases. I was just a bit thrown off by some comments regarding colors, and a video-y quality. Plus, I have worked with previous versions of Canon camcorders, and I was never fully convinced of their quality in recording. I may be wrong with this model, though.

So, to sum it all up:

Which one is the better choice for an indie film that will most likely be pitched to distribution companies and sent to festivals? (As far as image goes, of course, considering we operate it correctly.)

I would really appreciate it if someone can point me in the right direction.

Thank You!

Joseph Levinson
Monterrey, Mexico

[KCFilms]

I just can't understand why people say the Canon is the camera for film transfers. The camera only shoots in interlace (if you want to preserve the maximum resolution.) The 24F mode basically cuts your resolution in half. You will also lose the camera's resolution benefit through the de-interlacing process that must be applied in order to conform to the 24fps frame rate of film.

The JVC, on the other hand does shoot in 24fps (quite well.) The downsides are the chromatic aberration of the stock lens, the split screen effect and the JVC implementation of the HDV codec (while the best of the HDV bunch) it still has problems with complex or sudden motion.

As for the HVX, its noise level can be a turn-off for some. The camera is also said to have lower resolution than its competition (although there are plenty of side-by-side examples which cast doubt on that claim.)

So, basically, if you have the money to get two of these cameras, why not spend just a little more to check these cameras out in person. If you're going for a film-out, then test that as well. Everyone seems to have their favorites for the way they work and their particular aesthetic. There's just no substitute for an in-person demo.

[LearningVideo]

If you want to do film, then 24P is the best option. From these three Cameras, only two do TRUE 24P: HVX and the JVC.

HVX has superior color to JVC which is really evident in the picture. Yes, maybe JVC wins in other points, but the problem is that DVCPRO HD is a such superior format to JVC to the extent that the color superiority of the HVX makes an overall better picture.

I would suggest that the HVX is a clear winner for your case.

[isho]

And how about in terms of screening? Will it look alright if I show it in theatres? Or better yet, what would I have to do in order to be able to project it on screen (aside from a transfer to film)?