Are reels of movie film rare or worth anything as collector's items?

Question

I know on eBay there are framed film cells from movies, and they sell for about 10 - 80 dollars for a few cells, depending on the film, of course. Are entire film reels, or maybe even just reels from a trailer, worth anything as a collector's item? Are they illegal to own since film is usually destroyed after it is used? Will the price go up as digital film becomes the norm?

I'm thinking like, classic movies or movie trailers... Star Wars or Titanic or ET?

Answer 1

It really depends on the film. If you have reel(s) of say, "Citizen Kane" then yes, it probably is worth something. If you have reels of "Ghost Rider" I doubt it, other than a collector. The real (reel hehe) problem is, that most films are put on gigantic reels once assembled so that they don't have to stop.

Trailer reels are probably not worth much, unless, once again its an in demand film.

No, they aren't illegal to own unless you stole it, and the studio wants it back.

No, the prices probably won't go up since the digital boom.

The film cell prices are really not how to judge the price of reels. Just remember, something is only worth whatever someone else will give you for it.

Answer 2

I lucked out and sold Back to the Future II and III film trailers for $309 the week of the anniversary. I just happened to buy them two weeks prior in a big lot of trailers. I've sold others in the bunch for $50 to 99 cents.

Answer 3

Canned reels are valuable to collectors and movie buffs. Hang on to what you have and see what happens. Someone out there may be willling to pay a decent amount for it.

Answer 4

depends on whats on the film. a home movie is worthless, but if the camera is rolling and caught marlin brando feeling up so extra who smacks him, then thats money.