KODAK DOUBLE X /5222

Today, we’re taking a look at Kodak Double-X—a black-and-white motion picture film that’s an absolute gem. It’s rated at ISO 250, and let me tell you, this stuff is one of my all-time favorites. There’s something special about it—the way it captures light, the mood it brings to a shot. If you haven’t tried it yet, grab some, give it a spin, and you can thank me later. Seriously, it’s worth it. Let’s dive into what makes this film so brilliant and why it’s earned a permanent spot in my kit.

Kodak Double-X, or Eastman Double-X 5222 if you want to get technical, was originally designed for the cinema world—think classic Hollywood flicks with brooding shadows and crisp detail. It’s got a rich heritage, and that DNA shines through when you use it for stills. At ISO 250, it’s got a nice middle-ground speed—fast enough for overcast days or indoor scenes, but not so pushy that you’re battling crazy grain. I usually rate it at 200 ISO myself—just a touch of underexposure to keep the highlights in check and deepen those blacks. The grain? Oh, it’s there, but it’s gorgeous—fine, cinematic, with a texture that adds character without overwhelming the shot. You get these punchy contrasts and smooth tonal ranges that make everything from portraits to street scenes feel timeless.

What I love most is its versatility. It’s got this old-school vibe—think film noir or gritty documentaries—but it can handle modern stuff too. Bright sunlight? It holds detail in the highlights like a champ. Low light? Shadows stay rich, not muddy. It’s forgiving if you push it a stop or two—say, to 400 or 800—and the grain just gets more dramatic, which can be a total win depending on your mood. Oh, and a quick note: all the photos in this video? They’re straight scans from the lab—no post-processing, no fiddling. What you’re seeing is pure Double-X, fresh off the negative. How you develop and scan can tweak the vibe—different developers like D-76 or Rodinal will nudge the contrast or grain—so play around and find your sweet spot.

If you’re sold—and you should be—you can snag some Kodak Double-X, along with heaps of other great, interesting films, from this eBay seller at prices that won’t make you wince: https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/northernfilm. They’ve got it in stock, and trust me, it’s worth adding to your stash. Once you’ve shot your rolls, you’ll need them processed, right? These folks are fantastic for developing and scanning—always reliable, always quality: https://www.analoguefilms.co.uk.

Double-X isn’t just a film—it’s an experience. It’s got soul, it’s got grit, and it rewards you every time you load it up. I’ve shot everything from foggy mornings to late-night city streets with it, and it never lets me down. If you’re into black-and-white—or even if you’re just curious—give it a go. Rate it at 200, shoot it your way, and see what magic happens. Have you tried Double-X? Let me know your thoughts—or your favorite way to shoot it—down below. Stick around for more film love, and thanks for watching!