Introduction
The 5th EDCF Problem Solving Round Table at CineEurope 2024 took place on June 17th 2024. More than 30 people attended, representing cinema operators, exhibitors, distributors and manufacturers.
The attendees communicated the following issues in advance. We discussed these topics and collaboratively explored potential solutions.
Problem 1: Cinematic Judder on PLF Screens
Discussion
Solution
PLF (Premium Large Format) screens offer an opportunity to impress audiences with big and bright projections. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) quality of these screens provides filmmakers with creative options to visually communicate through greater contrast, color, and clarity. However, cinematic judder from 24fps presentations that were acceptable on smaller or darker screens become objectionable on larger and brighter screens.
HDR and Motion Grading: Motion grading can eliminate judder by upgrading 24fps to 48fps, using cinematic high frame rate (HFR) technology. This is executed by Pixelworks Technology and can be played through Dolby Vision, IMAX, and Cinity.
Benefits: Brings HFR high frame rate, HDR high dynamic range, extended color Gammut, and high brightness to screens.
Implementation
70% of projectors can handle HFR, but the question remains about who will bear the cost of these upgrades—postproduction or the distributor. Studios and postproduction should take the initiative to implement technologies for improved viewers experience.
Even older movies can benefit from converting to HFR using motion grading technologies and visible not only on PLF screens but also on smaller screen formats.
Problem 2: Streamlining and Automating the KDM Process
Discussion
Solution
The current manual, email-based system for KDM (Key Delivery Message) request and delivery is prone to errors and inefficiencies, leading to broader play periods that undermine content security. With technological capabilities for automated KDM management in place, such as DKDMs (Distribution KDMs) for API-based generation by companies like Gofilex, and Barco’s recent patent on a “Delivery Platform for Cinema Content,” there are steps we can take to fully automate the KDM management system.
Automation Exists: Automatic key delivery is largely automated (proprietary solutions exist) but often requires human approval from content owners, especially for older and non-studio titles.
Issues: Independents sometimes issue keys valid for six months, which is insecure. Repetory content often gets re-mastered, requiring new keys and (again) human approval.
Barco Patent: Not applicable here; it is intended for internal distribution within a cinema.
Proposed Solution
Digitalize commercial contract agreements to automate key issuance validation. A system where cinemas log in and directly request a key, which is automatically validated and sent after contract validation, could be beneficial.
Problem 3: Image Artifacts / JPEG2000 and Legacy Products
Discussion
Solution
Image artifacts can suddenly occur during content playback, often related to older legacy equipment.
Legacy Equipment: Issues with older systems (10-15 years old) are known, with only one out of three identified issues resolved.
Documentation
More information is available on the ISDCF website and will soon be available on the EDCF website.
Problem 4: Certificate Issues
Discussion
Solution
Earlier this year, problems arose with the expiration of signer certificates, causing content playback failures, affecting more than 400,000 CPLs.
Immediate Actions: Laboratories re-mastered much content with newer certificates. A DCI addendum was issued, proposing different signer certificate controls (without removing any control).
Software Upgrades: Vendors included this in the latest software upgrades. Cinemas must ensure their equipment runs the latest software to avoid issues.
Documentation
Additional documentation is available on the ISDCF website and will soon be available on the EDCF website.
Problem 5: Older Servers
Discussion
Solution
The issue of older servers and their replacement remains relevant. Concerns include communication of serial numbers to vendors or laboratories and the handling of Dolphin boards, which is a security issue.
Lack of workflow: No existing workflow or step-by-step guide.
Proposed Solution
Create a global list of retired servers and their serial numbers. Consider establishing a specialized organization to process old Dolphin boards and maintain this list. Collaboration among organizations like EDCF, UNIC, ICTA, and CTC is necessary to develop workflows and guidelines.
Conclusion
The roundtable discussions highlighted several critical issues and potential solutions in the cinema industry. Continued collaboration and innovation are essential to address these challenges effectively.
Cathy Huis in ‘t veld Esser (EDCF President)
David Hancock (Moderator)
Juergen Burghardt (EDCF General Secretary)
Thank you for participating!
We really hope you all had a wonderful time at CineEurope 2024! A big thank you to everyone who came to the EDCF Problem Solving Roundtable and shared their thoughts on the issues discussed. Your contributions were invaluable in helping us find some great solutions. We’d absolutely love to see you again next year!
In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions, thoughts or ideas.