Suggestion for SDR Content Modifiers for SDR Versions of HDR-Mastered Films

[jackers2024]

I am here to suggest a new content modifier that would be similar for films with both 2D and 3D versions. I am suggesting an SDR content modifier because if the content does not have an HDR version, the projectionist would assume the DCP is in SDR. This would be helpful for content with both SDR and HDR versions.

[SteveLLamb]

Currently there are only "3" HDR style versions: "DVis", "DCI HDR1", and now "Barco LSHDR". Those are only made and able to be shown on those specific systems that support them (only a small percentage of screens compared to the wider base install), and generally speaking most big tent poles have at min a DVis version. The 3D was due to there being many more 3D screens available, and to let the ops know the "intended and preferred" to be shown is 3D and because of the uniqueness of 3D, which is less useful with "HDR".

[jackers2024]

“EC” should also count but still. Yet, an SDR content-modifier for such films should be helpful for projectionists to know it’s the SDR version because I see HDR taking off in the cinema industry.

[SteveLLamb]

EC is only still included for legacy purposes at this point, as there is no content being created, nor systems that support.

I don't disagree about HDR taking off, but the ramp up is quite slow with really only proprietary systems supporting (and some LED). This would be like labeling non-IAB/ATMOS "standard audio" because there is also an IAB version out there.

[jackers2024]

I do see something wrong with your comparison. "Standard audio" is being labeled in the DCNC as "51," "71," "10," and "20" because they're different technologies using a different number of channels, despite one standard being dominant.

Plus, America's top eight exhibitors have made a $2.2 billion pledge that involves projection upgrades, so it's easy to see HDR as part of that.