Example of warping in 16mm film caused by Vinegar Syndrome

The 16mm film being projected here is suffering from the so-called VS or Vinegar Syndrome, a chemical breakdown of the film base that produces a strong vinegar smell. This problem is often caused by incorrect storage. VS eventually distorts the film, causing a warping effect and a visible twisting of the film when projected on a film projector. This first reel copy from Cleopatra (1963) shows what that looks like, even though the film itself still projects fairly well, mainly because the perforations have not yet been affected too much.

[@frankfarago2825]

I love the colors and the aspect ratio of this film as you are projecting it. A true classic.

[@garymattscheck9066]

I think that's what happened to a lot of the silent movies. They went bad in the storage cans.

[@ConclusiveLion663]

Maybe the sound drivers were not invented...

[@VennyRestore]

This is why scanning and preserving film is a must. So many ways for film to deteriorate which makes back ups in this day and age a savior

[@CharlesHess]

I have three of those EIKIs!

[@Wrongway346]

Nice projector you have.... real nice... treat that film with "Film Guard" it will help the film allot.. Plus you can iron it out,,, but it's allot of work..
mike mike

[@conhawks]

surprised its taking up so tight, usually baggy saggy all loose

[@elizalevinson3539]

hi, I'm an artist working on a visual&text piece about vinegar syndrome for a zine this january and would love to use some stills of your vinegar syndrome film in the piece! please message me if you're interested -- would love to talk with you about VS & your film archive :)