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Chain of custody
Every reel has a paper trail.
Provenance is how we know a film is what it claims to be. Before any title enters the Planet Legends Vault, we trace its origin, inspect its condition, document its restoration, and deposit a preservation master with an accredited archive.
01 — The four locks
What provenance means here
We don't fractionalize mystery prints. A title must clear all four locks before it can stream or open for ownership.
Origin
Chain of title traced from original production through successors, estates, distributors, and licensors. We file a clear rights memo before any campaign opens.
Condition
Surviving elements are inspected by an accredited lab. We note the source element — original negative, interpositive, fine-grain, print, or digital scan — and its physical state.
Restoration
Every restoration is logged: scanning house, colorist, sound facility, deliverables list, and final QC. We release funds against milestones, not invoices.
Deposit
A preservation master is deposited with a FIAF- or AMIA-aligned archive so the work survives any single company, server, or platform.
02 — The vault marks
How to read a provenance badge
Soon, every film in the Vault will carry a small provenance mark. Here is what the marks mean.
Restored in 4K
A modern 4K scan and restoration, approved for re-release.
Original Negative
Sourced from the original camera negative or equivalent master element.
35mm Scan
Scanned from a 35mm print or interpositive in good condition.
Archive Master
Preservation master deposited with an accredited archive.
Rare Print
Surviving prints are scarce; this version is one of few known copies.
Out of Print
No longer available through commercial channels; rediscovery candidate.
Director's Cut
The version the filmmaker intended, not the compromised release.
Last Surviving Print
The known final surviving element; highest preservation priority.
03 — For patrons
Provenance protects your stake
Fractional ownership only works if the asset is real, scarce, and legally clear. Provenance is the due diligence that makes that possible.
1
Verified asset
You know what print was scanned, where it came from, and who holds the rights. No blind pools.
2
Restoration value
A restored 4K master is worth more than a battered print. Provenance records the upgrade that unlocks revenue.
3
Preservation insurance
A master deposited with an archive means the film survives even if a distributor or platform disappears.
See the collection
Who you're actually emailing
Questions about a title's provenance?
Archivists and rights-holders can reach the acquisitions desk. Patrons can ask the investor relations desk.
