What We Lose If We Don’t Preserve Film

In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins of No Film School sits down with Ben Roberts, Chief Executive of the British Film Institute (BFI), for a powerful conversation on the cultural and creative necessity of film preservation. As the BFI celebrates the 90th anniversary of its National Archive and launches its new BFI America initiative, Roberts shares deep insights into the archival process, global collaboration, and the evolving role of film as both art and artifact. From rediscovering rare prints to the vital importance of archiving even digital work, this episode offers an inspiring call to action for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.In this episode, we discuss:Why film preservation matters more than ever in the digital ageThe significance of BFI’s National Archive turning 90Rare film prints like Jaws and Mildred Pierce hidden in BFI’s vaultsHow the BFI selects films for restoration and the stories behind those choicesThe launch of BFI America and its goals for international collaborationPractical advice for emerging filmmakers attending international markets like Cannes or BerlinWhy preserving your own creative process is as important as the work itselfGuests:Ben RobertsSubscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogleGet your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here: This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.

May 1, 2025 - 20:01
 0
What We Lose If We Don’t Preserve Film


In this episode of the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins of No Film School sits down with Ben Roberts, Chief Executive of the British Film Institute (BFI), for a powerful conversation on the cultural and creative necessity of film preservation. As the BFI celebrates the 90th anniversary of its National Archive and launches its new BFI America initiative, Roberts shares deep insights into the archival process, global collaboration, and the evolving role of film as both art and artifact. From rediscovering rare prints to the vital importance of archiving even digital work, this episode offers an inspiring call to action for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.


In this episode, we discuss:

  • Why film preservation matters more than ever in the digital age
  • The significance of BFI’s National Archive turning 90
  • Rare film prints like Jaws and Mildred Pierce hidden in BFI’s vaults
  • How the BFI selects films for restoration and the stories behind those choices
  • The launch of BFI America and its goals for international collaboration
  • Practical advice for emerging filmmakers attending international markets like Cannes or Berlin
  • Why preserving your own creative process is as important as the work itself

Guests:


Subscribe to the No Film School Podcast on:

Get your question answered on the podcast by emailing podcast@nofilmschool.com


Listen to more episodes of the No Film School podcast right here:

This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by GG Hawkins.