I watched the Keanu Reeves-produced and narrated documentary Side By Side last night. It was fantastic. Plenty of interviews with directors, cinematographers, and other industry figures on the merits of digital vs film, and where the future lies. Compelling arguments by both sides.

You can imagine who one of the biggest proponents of digital was (rhyme with Ducas). And he had good points, about being able to review footage immediately instead of waiting for dailies to find out something ruined the shot, not having to handle all the film strips, etc. On the flip side others contended that the emphasis on the image on set meant less attention to performances.

There was one very telling comment from James Cameron, who said something along the lines of: "After the success of Avatar, Alice in Wonderland, and How to Train Your Dragon, we showed there was a market for 3D." I found this to be interesting because he didn't really mention storytelling opportunities (or perhaps he did and it wasn't included). But it kind of went along with how many feel that things like 3D are just empty marketing gimmicks.

I think it's great that some directors can choose to use film and others can use digital. Soderbergh talked about how during filming Che, they didn't have to carry so much heavy film equipment through the hot, dense jungles. Just their hand helds and a few other things.

The documentary seemed to be making a small plea to not let film die completely. I'm not sure what's projected for the future, but I hope both forms of filmmaking can coexist.

Highly recommended. I think many people on here would enjoy it.