D-Cinema: A Timeline of Experimental and Mainstream Uses of Digital Technology

One of the factors that leads to change in the dominant modes of cinematic produc- tion and viewing is the development of new technologies; the incorporation of new technologies can force changes or strengthen esta- blished processes (the "norm"). Many have suggested that recent developments in digital cameras (and digital distribution venues) are revolutionizing cinema, creating new opportunities for independent filmmakers and fostering experimental forms. At the same time, studios and established Hollywood directors are working to incorporate the technology into industry practices.

In this timeline, we attempt to capture some of the complex ways new digital production and exhibition technologies have disrupted, changed, or strengthened filmmaking and viewing norms. Rather than representing a complete history of digital technology in film, we have selected a handful of important "benchmarks" in production and exhibition online, paralleled by some of the films that have marked important moments in digital cinema; selected anecdotes on the evolving uses of digital technology mediate the two. While the relationships among the events are left up to the reader to define, these anecdotes do create connections between the technical and film chro-nologies. We hope our selection and representation of events provide insight; they also reflect our own perspectives.