Formatting:
- File Format – Files should be Quicktime, MKV, MXF, or MP4.
- Encoding – Content should be encoded as Pro Rez, H.264, or H.265.
- ColorSpace – sRGB, Rec 709, or DCI P3 colorspaces are acceptable. Please list the colorspace in the filename or the Additional Comments section on the Interest form. Files without a listed colorspace will be assumed to be Rec 709.
- Frame rate – 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 48, and 60fps may be submitted. Fractional frame rates (drop frame timecodes) will be conformed to the nearest whole number (23.98 to 24, 29.97 to 30). This will result in a slightly different runtime in the final file but will not have any other noticeable impact (as audio will also be corrected). This is required because DCPs must be in whole numbered frame rates. 24fps submissions (or 48fps for High Framerate 3D) are strongly encouraged to ensure the widest compatibility with digital cinema servers in the field.
- Resolution – DCPs for distribution to cinemas are encoded with one of two aspect ratios and associated resolution: Flat (1.85:1) films have a resolution of 1998×1080 (3996×2160 for 4K films), while Scope (2.39:1) films have a resolution of 2048×858 (4096×1716 for 4K). Submissions not conforming to one of those resolutions will have black matte added to the sides or the top of the image to fit the closest resolution (Pillarboxing or Letterboxing).
- Sound – Soundtracks may be submitted as individual labeled files for each channel, or as one file with multiple discrete channels, with the channel layout included in the name or in associated documents. ProLogic or other encoded audio formats cannot be accommodated.
- 5.1 or 7.1 Submissions – channel layout should be included; absent other instruction the order will be assumed to be Left, Right, Center, Sub/LFE, Left Surround, Right Surround, (Left Rear Surround, Right Rear Surround).
- Stereo Submissions – channel layout should be Left and Right only; no additional tracks should be in the file. Stereo submissions will not meet Academy Award guidelines. For further information please see, Eligibility Requirements
- Accessibility Audio – If you have dedicated Hearing Impaired or Visually Impaired Narrative (Audio Description) audio tracks they can be included for use with the DCP. They will be encoded as channels 7 and 8 of the DCP in accordance with the specification for playback in compliant cinemas.
- Subtitles – Subtitles can be accommodated in the following formats: .SRT, .SSA, .ASS, and XML. If subtitles are burned into the image area, they should be in the image itself and not in a black matte below the image (where they would most likely be cut off during presentation in most cinema environments).
- Please ensure if your submission includes any of the following that timecodes not intended to be shown to audiences are specifically noted: 2 Pop, Title Card, Bars and Tone, Countdowns, or extra frames of black at the head or tail.
Content Handling:
- The name of the movie should be the file name.
- If a physical drive is sent, the name of movie must be visible on the outside of the drive.
- If sending a link for download, we accept the following services: Dropbox, Vimeo (with download ability enabled), WeTransfer, Google Drive, and FTP.
Tape and Film sources:
Submissions on physical media may be accommodated, but additional charges will apply.
If you’d like to have your project converted to a DCP please fill out our Interest Form and we will be happy to assist you.