NAB: Blackmagic Designs Announces Revolutionary 27 FPS Frame Rate
Finally, a Frame Rate to Unite Film Buffs and TikTok Dancers Alike
April 8, 2025
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A New Era in Frame Rates: The 27 FPS Revolution
In a move that has left both cinephiles and digital video producers scratching their heads, Blackmagic Designs has announced the release of their groundbreaking 27 FPS frame rate. This innovative frame rate is set to redefine the way we view video, promising to deliver the elusive 'film look' while being optimized for modern digital devices.
"For too long, we've been shackled by the tyranny of traditional frame rates," declared Blackmagic spokesperson, Dr. Flic Kerz. "The 24 FPS standard was perfect for the 20th century, but it's high time we evolved. Introducing 27 FPS, the frame rate of the future."
From Flickering Light Bulbs to Flickering Fame
In the age of high-definition cameras and super-slo-mo replays, Blackmagic's 27 FPS aims to bridge the gap between the classic cinematic feel and the crisp reality of digital technology. "It's about time we had a frame rate that caters to both movie buffs and TikTok dancers," said Dr. Kerz.
The new frame rate is thoughtfully designed to sit snugly between the traditional 24 FPS film look and the 30 FPS used for digital video. "27 FPS gives you that iconic filmic motion blur," explained Kerz, "while ensuring your epic dance moves on social media look as smooth as a velvet Elvis painting."
54 FPS: Perfect for Sports.
Not just content with revolutionizing the standard frame rates, Blackmagic has also introduced a companion frame rate of 54 FPS, or "Blackmagic High Speed", is specifically tailored for sports enthusiasts and action junkies. "54 FPS is perfect for capturing all the sweat, speed, and glory of your local pickleball tournament," Kerz noted with a twinkle in their eye.
Critics and Supporters
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Traditionalists argue that the sanctity of 24 FPS should remain unchallenged, while tech enthusiasts and social media influencers are keenly embracing the change.
"I can't wait to shoot my next vlog at 27 FPS," exclaimed aspiring influencer and self-proclaimed 'frame rate aficionado,' Chip Hertz. "It's going to be legendary!"
Meanwhile, veteran cinematographer and staunch frame rate purist, Cel Luloid, lamented, "Next thing you know, they'll be telling us to shoot in 32.5 FPS. What's next? A 42 FPS for answering life, the universe, and everything?"
Industry-Wide Adoption or "Frame Rate Wars"
Blackmagic has just released a omnibus firmware update for all of their products enabling support for 720p27, 720p54, 1080p27, 1080p54, 2160p27 and 2160p54 across their entire product line. This is part of the "The future is 9x16" rollout that is bringing support for futuristic and modern aspect ratios to all Blackmagic product.
Youtube, Twitch and Vimeo have announced they will be rolling out support for these revolutionary frame rates by the end of Q2 2025.
Our industry insiders say that Red and Sony have been working on their own competing intermediate frame rates. Time will tell who will win the "Framerate wars".
The introduction of 27 FPS by Blackmagic Designs might indeed pave the way for a new era of filmmaking and content creation. Whether it will become the new standard or join the ranks of Betamax and the Zune remains to be seen.
For now, Blackmagic is confident that 27 FPS will become the perfect compromise for those who want the aesthetic of film with the convenience of digital. "We are living in a post-24 FPS world," Dr. Kerz concluded, "and it's about time we shape it to our whims."