Film Trade Shows and Film Sales Question

[Joe Fenwick]

I am fairly new to motion picture film. Being interested in silent film formats of both regular and super 8mm as well 16mm double perf films I've been looking through eBay and sometimes Etsy at film; and honestly have come to the conclusion that most sellers have no idea what they have and are selling nor do they know the true condition of the films. Are there trade shows through out the year and or locations in the USA that sell film where an individual can actually look at what they wish to purchase?

[Douglas Meltzer]

Joe,

There's an upcoming (April 18-21) CineSea Film Collectors show in Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. I posted here about this yesterday. I'm a Co-Director and every dealer we have is also a knowledgeable film collector. The projectors are constantly running, so yes, you can screen a reel that you're interested in purchasing. Please take a look at our website for more information.

In Ohio, there's also The Columbus Moving Picture Show that takes place on Memorial Day weekend. A number of film dealers attend both shows.

[Joe Fenwick]

Douglas, thank you for the note regarding the Columbus Show. I did see the the post about the CineSea Film Show; I am quite a drive out from New Jersey. Perhaps one day; I'd like to make it up into that area someday. Are these recurring shows at about the same time each year?

[Douglas Meltzer]

Joe,

The Columbus Moving Picture Show is always held on Memorial Day weekend. CineSea happens twice a year, normally in mid April & mid October.

[Tim Wirtz]

I would love to be able to to Cinesea. Preferably sooner then later. It's a long drive from here. I got the notion to check out Columbus for this year. Making sure I could get enough time from work is one issue. But, I don't know how close to Chicago you are, Mr. Fenwick. They have an Amtrack train to Columbus twice a day. It would be cheaper and faster then driving. I'm seriously tempted to see if it would work out.

[Joe Fenwick]

I am about 2 hours west of Chicago. Have taken the metro, from Aurora, into downtown to avoid the traffic and parking issues. Columbus is a 7 hour drive. I won't make the show this year; however, will try for 2025. Maybe look into Amtrack to Columbus; however, I do enjoy taking my cameras for a road trip to Atlanta and into southern Alabama to visit family. West Virginia is fantastically photogenic so doing a side stop into Columbus then venturing the a waterfall trail through West Virginia would be great. The trade show dealer room is a place I'd like to visit.