Kodak Double-X: The Black & White Film with a Hollywood Legacy
If you love black & white photography with a timeless, cinematic look, Kodak Double-X might be the perfect film for you. Originally designed for motion picture cameras, this classic stock has been used in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films—and now, photographers can shoot with it too. In this post, we’ll dive into its history, how it became a favorite for still photography, where to get it, its pricing, five key things you should know before shooting it, and the movies that have made it famous (including Oppenheimer!).
History of Double-X
Kodak Eastman Double-X 5222 has been around since the late 1950s, originally made for the film industry. Unlike traditional black-and-white still photography films, Double-X was designed for motion picture cameras, giving it a unique grain structure and tonal range. Over the decades, this stock has been trusted by legendary filmmakers for its ability to create deep blacks, rich contrast, and a classic cinematic aesthetic.
Some of the most famous movies that have used Kodak Double-X include:
Raging Bull (1980)
Schindler’s List (1993)
Casino Royale (2006)
The Lighthouse (2019)
Oppenheimer (2023) – Specially made in 65mm for IMAX!
How It Became a Still Photography Favorite
Even though it was made for movie cameras, photographers discovered that it could be bulk-rolled into 35mm canisters and used in standard film cameras. The results? Beautiful, punchy, and dynamic black & white images with a true cinematic feel. Today, some companies even cut it into 120 format for medium format shooters, making it even more accessible.
Where to Get Kodak Double-X (35mm & 120 Format)
Because Kodak primarily sells Double-X in bulk 400-ft rolls for filmmakers, you won’t typically find it at your local camera store. However, several companies have made it easier to buy in smaller quantities:
CineStill (sold as BwXX)
Film Photography Project (FPP)
Kamerastore
Boutique film shops and indie suppliers
While 35mm is more common, 120 format is available in limited batches from specialty sellers.
How Much Does It Cost?
As of now, pricing for Kodak Double-X varies depending on the format:
35mm rolls: $12–$15 per roll
120 rolls: $15–$20 per roll
Bulk 400-ft roll: Around $250 (great for bulk rolling your own canisters!)
Sample Images
5 Things to Know About Kodak Double-X
It’s actually motion picture film.
Originally made for Hollywood, not still photography.
Rated at ISO 250 (Daylight) and 200 (Tungsten).
You can also push it to 800+ for a grittier look.
No DX coding.
If you’re using a point-and-shoot, you’ll need to set the ISO manually.
Classic, punchy black & white look.
Deep blacks, high contrast, and a rich grain structure.
Easy to develop.
Works well with standard developers like Kodak D-76, HC-110, and Rodinal.
Movies That Used Kodak Double-X 🎥
Beyond still photography, Double-X has played a role in some of the greatest films ever made. Directors like Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg have used it to create unforgettable imagery.
One of the most exciting recent uses? Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer (2023). Since IMAX had never made black & white film before, Kodak created a special 65mm Double-X stock just for the film, helping bring those stunning sequences to life.
Final Thoughts
Kodak Double-X is a black & white film with a rich history and an undeniable cinematic quality. If you love deep contrast, strong grain, and that classic movie feel, it’s absolutely worth trying. Whether you bulk-roll it yourself or pick up a pre-rolled canister, it’s a unique film that adds a distinct look to your photography.
Have you shot Kodak Double-X? What do you think of it? Let me know in the comments, and if you’re thinking about trying it, I’d love to hear what kind of shots you’re planning!