471

STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK (1980) - Sprocket Systems KEM 35mm Film Editing Table

Currency:GBP Category:Memorabilia / Movie - Memorabilia Start Price:5,000.00 GBP Estimated At:10,000.00 - 15,000.00 GBP
STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK (1980) - Sprocket Systems KEM 35mm Film Editing Table
A KEM 35mm film editing table, developed by Sprocket Systems, a division of Lucasfilm that would evolve into Skywalker Sound. Established in 1975, Sprocket Systems was Lucasfilm's editing and sound division around the time of the original Star Wars trilogy. The Sprocket Systems name came into widespread use during the production of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.

This flatbed editing table is made largely of stamped steel and is outfitted with a viewing head and a speaker. Flatbed KEM tables were used extensively to cut movies in the pre-digital age. The four-plate table allowed editors to review two reels of film at once and physically splice material between the two to make edits. The table features an optical sound head capable of playing optical sound printed onto film, and a magnetic sound head (currently disconnected) capable of playing sound magnetically recorded to 35mm film. The table is in operational condition and can still be used to watch 35mm film. Additional features include controls to play the film at various speeds in either direction, and a digital footage counter, not currently connected.

The table and viewing head both have Sprocket Systems inventory tags attached. A plate designed to support the user's arm while operating the table for hours on end has been bent down, which serves as a unique identifying trait for the piece. A well-known photo exists of Empire director Irvin Kershner standing next to this exact table, with support plate bent down, during the editing of the film. The 1983 Lucasfilm yearbook also shows a photograph of George and Marcia Lucas sitting at the table.

One of a small number of flatbed editing tables on which Empire was cut, the table was almost certainly used by George Lucas at some point; Lucas enjoyed editing and was very hands-on in the editing of all of his films. The editing table was also used on many other Lucasfilm projects of the era, including Raiders of the Lost Ark, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and others. Visual-effects artist Dennis Muren can be seen using the table in a documentary on the effects of Temple of Doom. The editing table shows minor wear due to production use and age, but remains in fine condition. Dimensions: 117 cm x 119 cm x 124 cm (46'' x 47'' x 49 1/2'')

This item contains electronic components. While every effort is made to describe them accurately, no guarantee or warranty is made as to functionality, lifespan or safety of those components. It is entirely incumbent on the new owner to satisfy themselves as to their safe use and maintenance.

£10,000 - 15,000

VAT Status - US