Uploaded July 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
In attics, garages, basements and barns, even in archives themselves—films are rediscovered. Previously considered lost to history through fire, neglect, or even intentional destruction, they are found and brought back to life. This talk explores the world of lost films: what they are, how they are found, and what happens once they reach an archive. Join Associate Collection Manager Kirk McDowell as he discusses a number of recent George Eastman Museum acquisitions, highlighting the collection management and conservation work that protects these rescued films and allows them to reach audiences and scholars once again.
In attics, garages, basements and barns, even in archives themselves—films are rediscovered. Previously considered lost to history through fire, neglect, or even intentional destruction, they are found and brought back to life. This talk explores the world of lost films: what they are, how they are found, and what happens once they reach an archive. Join Associate Collection Manager Kirk McDowell as he discusses a number of recent George Eastman Museum acquisitions, highlighting the collection management and conservation work that protects these rescued films and allows them to reach audiences and scholars once again.
