The 235 at the ASC

Following a time honored tradition, ARRI showed the ARRIFLEX 235 to the membership of the American Society of Cinematographers prior to the official premiere.

On June 8, 2004, a number of highly acclaimed cinematographers gathered at the ASC Clubhouse in a relaxed atmosphere, while ARRI Inc Vice President Bill Russell introduced the ARRIFLEX 235, supported by the ARRI Inc Burbank Manager of Technical Services, Stephan Ukas-Bradley.

After the presentation the cinematographers had some hands-on time with the new camera. Three ARRIFLEX 235 cameras were built in different configurations, and tried in various hand held modes.

Questions on technical details were answered by Walter Trauninger, Head of the ARRI camera business unit, and Marc Shipman-Mueller, Technical Camera Marketing, who had both flown in from Germany for this event and the following Cine Gear Expo.

The camera was very well received, and discussions started about all the diverse situations on the set this camera would be useful for.

Woody Omens, ASC, commented with a smile that "This is the sexiest camera I have ever seen! Well, I guess I should say the most ergonomically elegant camera. "

Others were equally enthusiastic, and someone was heard saying that Easy Rider would have been much easier if Lazlo Kovacs had a camera like this back then.

The question heard most often was "when can I shoot with it?". The answer is that the camera should start shipping towards the end of this year.

Peter Anderson, ASC, was kind enough to explain the fascinating details of a Technicolor 3 strip camera showing here in stark contrast to the miniscule 235.

All in all, a pleasant and informative afternoon at the ASC Clubhouse.