This is topic SMPTE Journal article: The Motion Picture Machine Operator: 1900 to 2000 in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.
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Posted by Jeffry L. Johnson (Member # 453) on 08-05-2001, 03:35 PM:
The 2001 August issue of "SMPTE Journal" (Vol. 110, No. 8) includes an article by D. Karl Malkames titled "The Motion Picture Machine Operator: 1900 to 2000". "The motion picture industry has grown from a nickleodeon novelty to one of the greatest art forms in existence. In the final analysis, all production costs, all labors of skilled craftsmen and artists ultimately pass through the tiny aperture of a theater projector for judgment by the audience. An overview of the operator responsible for maintaining a flawless and faithful exhibition of a given production is featured in this paper."
Posted by John Walsh (Member # 168) on 08-05-2001, 05:38 PM:
Too bad that operator is no longer treated with respect. Low pay, unpleasent working conditions (being rushed; working too many screens, etc) have resulted in (what another person here earlier said) "It's a job that has been de-professionalized."
Posted by Bob Maar (Member # 763) on 08-05-2001, 08:57 PM:
Hold your heads up all of you professionals. Yes, You are the final link between The Director, The Producer and the Stars. You are the ones who present their product to the public.It is your skill and expertise that place the product on the screen.
I don't care what they (whoever they are) think, they must know that without your care in presentation they have nothing to sell.
Be proud..you have earned it and Thank You.