CultureJuly 6, 2026

celluloid

/ˈsɛljʊlɔɪd/

Definition

A term referring to the material traditionally used to manufacture photographic and motion picture film, often used metonymically to describe the medium of film itself or the industry of traditional cinema.

Etymology

Derived from the trade name 'Celluloid' created in the late 19th century by combining 'cellulose'—the plant-derived material used to make the plastic—and the suffix '-oid', meaning 'resembling'.

In the news

The article uses 'Celluloid Junkie' as the name of the publication, referencing the historical reliance on physical film prints. It highlights how the industry is evolving beyond these traditional distribution and exhibition formats.

Micro cinemas, major impact: How Grassroots Exhibitors are Rebuilding Film Culture

Read the full article ↗

Celluloid Junkie

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