The Cine Pen Archive
The Cine Pen Archive is a collection dedicated to pens produced and distributed within the film industry. While some may focus on classic memorabilia like movie posters or props, this collection centers on something often overlooked: the writing instruments used by those in the industry. From promotional giveaways to special gifts for partners and staff, these pens hold a unique place in the history of cinema.
Founded, managed, and curated by Matthew Duclos, the archive offers a fun and lighthearted exploration of these unassuming items. Through this project, Matthew celebrates the often forgotten objects that were present behind the scenes, quietly contributing to the daily workings of the film industry.
While these pens may seem like everyday items, each one tells a story—from branded pens handed out at premieres, to commemorative gifts presented to key figures in film. The pens in this collection are a testament to the unique blend of creativity, business, and collaboration that makes the film industry so vibrant.
Why Pens?
You might wonder why pens? While many collections focus on larger, more visually impactful artifacts like costumes or props, pens represent something subtle yet essential in filmmaking. They were used to sign important contracts, jot down notes during meetings, and even pen the first drafts of screenplays. Despite their humble nature, these pens have been part of the creative process in ways most people will never realize.
This collection embraces the quirky, humble origins of these writing instruments, showing that even the most ordinary objects can play a role in shaping the films we love. Whether mass-produced for promotional purposes or given as personal gifts, these pens have left their mark in the history of cinema.
The archive encourages visitors to explore this lighthearted and often overlooked aspect of film history.
Contribute a Pen to the Archive
Do you have a film-related pen that’s not in our collection? We'd love to include it! Whether it's a promotional giveaway from a film premiere, a commemorative pen gifted to a crew member, or any pen that’s part of film history, your contribution will help make the archive more complete.
By contributing a pen, you’ll be helping to preserve an important part of cinematic history. Your pen will be professionally photographed and added to our growing collection, allowing future generations of film enthusiasts to appreciate these subtle pieces of movie memorabilia.