it sounds like you've never shot on film before. if thats the case you should'nt try and learn how on a project. shoot it all on an XL1. if your going to shoot film anyway and spend all that money on film and transfer dont transfer it to dv put it on digibeta, and rent a media composer.

F this s

whats got into him?

..he cant take critisism

well great there goes the band

Actually, I disagree. If you don't learn how to shoot on film on a project, when are you going to learn? It's too expensive to just muck around in the backyard.

DV dailies look really good, although I've never seen them used professionally for anything other than dailies (rushes). Because it is very expensive to strike a workprint for projection, many big TV shows and some features are using them now and they are good enough to see focus problems, lighting mistakes, and technical glitches (although projection of film is still better by far).

Since you're gonna be using a post house to do this, go knock on some doors. They'll show you what they've got to offer, what you can do with it, and fill you in on hidden costs you hadn't thought of (like negative cutting). They can also (usually) give you a break on the rate (who knows... you might be the next John Singleton).

For the shoot with the film cameras, make sure you surround yourself with people who know what they're doing, and don't be afraid to ask around at the rental houses. There are always people there (like myself) looking to move up the ladder. You'll be able to find plenty of good help. Film is expensive and should be approached carefully. With that care, you will get some great stuff.

...although I do agree about the digibeta.