The Filmmuseum Düsseldorf entrusted OMNIMAGO GmbH with restoring the 1928 silent film “SONG,” directed by Richard Eichberg and featuring Anna May Wong in her debut leading role.
Challenges arose due to the poor condition of the two source materials, including nitrate originals affected by decomposition. Using SCANITY technology, OMNIMAGO meticulously scanned the black-and-white nitrate negative and a sepia-toned release print. These scans were compared and edited to create a more comprehensive version.
The restoration process included grading, digital tinting, and crafting authentic-looking intertitles from the film’s era. A notable task was determining the film’s original speed, which was settled at 21 fps after rigorous testing and consultation with the customer.
Now in its final stages, the project highlights the main source material: 35mm Original Negative in black and white.
