Super 16 Format

Super 16 is not a new format (more than 30 years old), but it has become more popular than regular 16 due to the new 9-16 TV format [“New Film Formats Hurt Panavision,” Letters, June 20].

The overall demand for 16mm products is not growing. If that were the case, Panavision would be in a position to supply the demand, as in fact it has the largest inventory of 16mm cameras and lenses in the world.

The use of 16mm for theater releases is almost nonexistent, less than 0.5%. The use of 16mm in the TV market or feature film market is not growing. The relative use of 16mm vs. 35mm has remained stable or in many territories declined over the last five years.

Panavision market share has grown, not declined, in all market segments in 1999. Panavision revenues are above last year but below expectations due to reduced feature film productions in 1999. Sixteen-millimeter never has and never will be as good as 35mm.

By the way, Panavision supplied the equipment for the feature film “Leaving Las Vegas.”

JOHN S. FARRAND

Chief executive and president

Panavision

Woodland Hills