Movie posters aren’t just advertising; they’re miniature works of art, capturing the essence of a film and sparking memories. Obtaining original movie posters requires a mix of knowledge, patience, and sometimes, a little luck. This guide will equip you with the essential strategies for building your collection, from understanding different types of posters to navigating the market like a seasoned pro.
Understanding the Allure: Why Collect Movie Posters?
The appeal of movie posters stems from their unique blend of art, history, and nostalgia. They are tangible links to cinematic experiences, reflecting cultural trends and artistic styles of their time. For collectors, they represent more than just decorations; they are investments, historical artifacts, and conversation starters. The value of a poster can increase significantly depending on its rarity, condition, and the film’s cultural impact. Consider the iconic status of posters from classics like “Casablanca” or “Star Wars,” each piece holding a place in cinematic history.
Sources for Authentic Movie Posters
Finding genuine movie posters involves exploring various avenues, each with its own pros and cons. Knowing where to look is half the battle.
Direct from Theaters and Studios
Building Relationships with Theater Managers
While increasingly rare, establishing a rapport with local movie theater managers can be a fruitful strategy. Many theaters discard posters after a film’s run, and some managers are willing to part with them, especially if you’re a regular customer. Be polite, patient, and persistent. Offer to help remove posters after a film closes, and be prepared that they might not have any available.
Studio Memorabilia Sales
Major film studios sometimes hold sales or auctions featuring props, costumes, and, yes, movie posters. Keep an eye on studio websites and social media channels for announcements about these events. These posters are usually guaranteed to be authentic, though they often come with a higher price tag.
Online Marketplaces: Navigating the Digital Landscape
eBay and Online Auctions
eBay is a treasure trove for movie poster collectors, but it’s essential to exercise caution. Thoroughly research sellers, paying close attention to feedback scores and reviews. Examine poster photos carefully for signs of damage or reproduction, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Compare prices with other listings to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Specialized Online Dealers
Numerous reputable online dealers specialize in movie posters. These dealers typically offer authentication services and guarantee the authenticity of their posters. They often have curated collections, making it easier to find specific titles or genres. While prices may be higher than on eBay, the peace of mind that comes with buying from a trusted dealer is often worth the premium. Examples include MoviePosterDB, LearnAboutMoviePosters, and Emovieposter.com.
Attending Collectibles Shows and Conventions
Movie Poster Conventions
Movie poster conventions, like those hosted by the International Vintage Poster Dealers Association (IVPDA), are gatherings of dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to browse a wide selection of posters, network with experts, and learn about the hobby. You can examine posters in person, assess their condition, and negotiate prices.
General Collectibles Shows
Don’t overlook general collectibles shows and antique fairs. You might stumble upon a rare movie poster amidst other vintage items. Be sure to bring your knowledge and resources to accurately assess the poster’s authenticity and value.
Identifying Original Posters: Avoiding Fakes
Understanding Printing Techniques
Original movie posters were typically printed using specific techniques, such as lithography or offset printing. Familiarize yourself with these processes and examine the poster’s texture and print quality. Modern reproductions often have a different look and feel.
Identifying Specific Indicators
Look for telltale signs of authenticity, such as:
- Studio markings and copyright information: Authentic posters will typically have studio logos, copyright notices, and National Screen Service (NSS) numbers.
- Paper quality: Original posters were often printed on different types of paper than reproductions. Learn to recognize the paper used for posters from different eras.
- Fold lines: Many older posters were folded by the NSS for distribution. Look for these fold lines as an indicator of authenticity.
- Size: Official theatrical posters typically come in standard sizes (e.g., one-sheet, half-sheet, insert). Deviations from these sizes can be a red flag.
Using Authentication Services
If you’re unsure about a poster’s authenticity, consider using a professional authentication service. These services employ experts who can examine the poster and provide an opinion on its originality. While these services can be costly, they can save you from making a costly mistake.
Protecting Your Investment: Preservation and Display
Proper Storage Techniques
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the condition of your movie posters. Store them flat in acid-free folders or sleeves, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider using a dedicated poster storage cabinet or archival box.
Displaying Your Posters Safely
When displaying your posters, avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Use UV-protective glass or acrylic in your frames. Avoid using adhesives that can damage the poster’s surface. Consider using a professional framing service that specializes in preserving valuable artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What’s the difference between a theatrical poster and a reprint?
Theatrical posters were printed for use in movie theaters during a film’s original release. Reprints are later copies, often produced for commercial sale. Theatrical posters are generally more valuable due to their limited availability and historical significance.
FAQ 2: What are the common sizes for movie posters?
Common sizes include: One-sheet (27×41 inches or 27×40 inches), half-sheet (22×28 inches), insert (14×36 inches), three-sheet (41×81 inches), and six-sheet (81×81 inches). Sizes can vary slightly depending on the era and the country of origin.
FAQ 3: What does “NSS number” mean, and why is it important?
The National Screen Service (NSS) was a company that distributed movie posters and other promotional materials to theaters. NSS numbers are code printed on posters to track distribution, and their presence often indicates a theatrical release poster.
FAQ 4: How can I tell if a poster has been linen-backed?
Linen backing is a conservation technique where a poster is mounted onto linen canvas to provide support and protect it from damage. Look for a smooth, uniform surface on the back of the poster, and be aware that linen backing can affect the poster’s value.
FAQ 5: What is “restoration,” and how does it impact value?
Restoration involves repairing damage to a poster, such as tears, stains, or fading. While restoration can improve a poster’s appearance, it can also decrease its value if not done properly. Professional restoration is preferable.
FAQ 6: What are the best conditions for storing movie posters?
Store posters flat, in acid-free sleeves or folders, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level to prevent damage.
FAQ 7: What is a “rolled” vs. a “folded” poster?
A rolled poster was never folded and is generally in better condition. A folded poster was folded for distribution, often by the NSS. Rolled posters typically command a higher price.
FAQ 8: Where can I find information about the value of movie posters?
Resources include online price guides (like those on specialized movie poster websites), auction records, and appraisals from reputable dealers. Condition and rarity are key factors influencing value.
FAQ 9: Should I frame my posters with UV-protective glass?
Yes! UV-protective glass or acrylic filters out harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause fading and damage to your posters. It’s a worthwhile investment to protect your collection.
FAQ 10: What are some red flags to watch out for when buying posters online?
Red flags include low-quality images, vague descriptions, sellers with no feedback, unusually low prices, and posters that are significantly different in size or appearance from known originals.
FAQ 11: What are the key elements that drive the value of a movie poster?
The key elements are:
- Rarity: How many were originally printed, how many have survived?
- Condition: Does it have damage (tears, folds, stains)?
- Demand: How popular is the film and its stars?
- Historical significance: Is it a landmark film?
FAQ 12: Are foreign movie posters more valuable than domestic ones?
It depends. Some foreign posters are rarer and more artistically unique than their domestic counterparts, making them more valuable. However, it’s poster-specific and relies on rarity, condition, and demand as well.