CINAIN Cinemateca y Archivo de la Imagen Nacional INCAA

Overview

CINAIN (Cinemateca y Archivo de la Imagen Nacional) is Argentina's national film archive and cinematheque, operating under the Instituto Nacional de Cine y Artes Audiovisuales (INCAA), the country's national film and audiovisual arts institute. CINAIN is responsible for the preservation, restoration, and dissemination of Argentina's audiovisual heritage and serves as the primary repository for Argentine film production.

History and Founding

Argentina has one of the oldest film industries in Latin America, dating to the early twentieth century. INCAA was created in its current form by Law 17.741 and subsequent legislation, and CINAIN developed as its archival and cinematheque arm to address the need to preserve Argentina's extensive cinematic heritage. The institution maintains the official registry of audiovisual institutions and is responsible for cataloguing and preserving Argentine film and television productions.

Collections and Holdings

CINAIN holds thousands of Argentine films spanning from the silent era to contemporary productions, along with associated materials including production documents, posters, stills, and audiovisual documentation. The archive preserves both 35mm and digital formats and undertakes restoration projects for deteriorating nitrate and acetate films. The INCAA registry (padrón de instituciones audiovisuales) documents the registered audiovisual institutions operating in Argentina, and CINAIN's information serves as a reference point for the sector.

Access and Usage

Information about CINAIN and the INCAA registry of audiovisual institutions is accessible through the Argentine government's official portal. Researchers and filmmakers can access materials and consult the registry through INCAA's institutional channels in Buenos Aires.