How To Remove Remjet: An Update

Eastman Kodak’s Vision3 color motion-picture films can also be used for still photography. The biggest difference between traditional color-negative film and most Vision3 film is the remjet backing.

Rem-jet is a black, opaque layer applied to the back of the film. It helps prevent halation, protects the film from scratches, and reduces static electricity as the film moves through a motion-picture camera. Unlike the anti-halation layers used on conventional still film, remjet must be removed during processing.

If you develop your own film, there are two practical ways to deal with it:

• Remove it manually after processing
• Use a prebath before development

I will explain both methods below.

Bulk rolled Vision3 35mm film

Why Photographers Use Vision3 Film

Vision3 has frequently been repackaged into standard 35mm cartridges for still photographers. Historically, there were two primary reasons for doing this:

1. Repackaged motion-picture film was often less expensive than conventional color-negative film.
2. It remained available during periods when traditional color film was difficult to find.

The color-film market has changed considerably during the past few years, however, and those changes are affecting the availability and appeal of repackaged Vision3 film.

Among the changes:

• Kodak has restricted direct sales of bulk Vision3 film, making it more difficult for small repackagers and individual photographers to purchase large rolls for still-photography use. I previously purchased 400 to 1,000 foot rolls myself, but that has become much more difficult.
• Color-film production and supply chains have improved. Conventional color-negative film is more readily available, and several products are now priced competitively with repackaged Vision3.
• Kodak has introduced a new Vision3 structure that replaces the traditional remjet backing with an anti-halation undercoat, or AHU. This layer performs the anti-halation function without requiring the traditional remjet removal stage during processing.

As the AHU versions gradually replace the older products, Vision3 film with remjet will likely become less common. However, it remains available for now, both as newly packaged film and in photographers’ existing inventories.

A Few Things to Know Before Using Vision3

If you currently own Vision3 film with remjet—or are considering buying some—keep the following points in mind:

• ECN-2 is the intended process. It produces the color, contrast, and tonal characteristics Kodak designed the film to deliver.
• C-41 processing is also possible. Many home processors use C-41 chemistry and obtain good results, although the color and contrast may differ somewhat from film processed in ECN-2.
• Some repackagers remove the remjet before selling the film. Unless the seller specifically says that it has been removed, assume the film still has it.
• Not every commercial laboratory accepts remjet film. Use only a lab that specifically states that it processes ECN-2 or remjet-backed film. Rem-jet can contaminate equipment and chemistry intended for conventional C-41 film.
• AHU versions do not require remjet removal. Confirm exactly which version you have before sending it to a laboratory.

Whether you process the film at home or use a commercial laboratory, traditional Vision3 film must have its remjet backing removed as part of the processing workflow.

Two Ways to Remove Remjet at Home

The two methods I use are:

• The manual “rub-off” method
• The prebath method

Both work, although I prefer the prebath method when I am processing several rolls.

Method One: Manually Removing the Remjet

In my opinion, this is the easiest and least expensive method because it requires no additional chemistry.

After the film has been developed, fixed, and thoroughly rinsed—but before the final rinse—soak it in warm water for about one minute. Water in the general range of 95°F to 102°F works well for me.

Remove the film from the developing tank and, while warm water runs over it, gently rub the rem-jet from the base side of the film. This is the shiny side, opposite the duller emulsion side.

You can use:

• A gloved thumb or finger
• A clean, soft microfiber cloth

The softened black backing should wipe away relatively easily. It can be messy, so I recommend wearing disposable nitrile gloves and working over a sink that can be cleaned afterward.

I normally wipe the film twice to make sure all the backing has been removed. I also hold the film up to a light and examine both sides. Any remaining remjet usually appears as black streaks, patches, or specks.

Once it is clean, give the film its normal final rinse and hang it to dry.

Negatives after and before the remjet is removed

A Word of Caution

Be careful not to rub the emulsion side. Wet emulsion is delicate and can be permanently scratched.

I have accidentally scratched negatives while using this method, so use very light pressure and avoid repeatedly handling areas that are already clean.

Method Two: Using a Prebath

A prebath softens the rem-jet before development so that most of it can be removed through agitation and rinsing.

A rem-jet prebath may be:

1. Included with an ECN-2 processing kit
2. Purchased separately
3. Mixed at home from a published formula

I mix my own prebath based on a Kodak formula, and the required chemicals have been relatively easy to obtain.

The DIY Prebath I use

Always follow the directions supplied with your particular prebath. The general procedure is:

1. Load the undeveloped film into the developing tank.
2. Add the prebath.
3. Agitate for the specified time.
4. Pour out the prebath.
5. Add warm water and agitate thoroughly.
6. Pour out the rinse water containing the loosened rem-jet.
7. Repeat the rinse if necessary.
8. Continue processing in either ECN-2 or C-41 chemistry.

The discarded water will usually be gray or black because it contains the loosened backing.

A comparison - film on L has remjet and film on R doesn't

Some prebath solutions can be reused, although their useful life depends on the formula, the number of rolls processed, and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Be aware that some home ECN-2 kits do not include a rem-jet prebath. In that case, you will need to purchase one separately, make your own, or remove the backing manually after processing.

I have had very good results with my homemade prebath. Even so, I inspect every roll before the final rinse. If I see any remaining residue, I gently wipe the base side with a clean microfiber cloth while the film is still wet.

Final Thoughts

I regularly use rem-jet-backed motion-picture film because I like its look, the range of film speeds available, and the distinctive results produced by its daylight- and tungsten-balanced versions.

The tungsten stocks can be especially interesting when used creatively under daylight or mixed lighting, although they may produce a noticeable blue color cast unless corrected with filtration, scanning, or editing.

Removing rem-jet adds an extra step to development, but it is not especially difficult once you become familiar with the process. Do not let the backing discourage you from experimenting with Vision3 film. With a little preparation and careful handling, it can produce excellent still photographs.