Film is not out of reach!!! It is can be as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it....Here are some suggestions for Super8 and 16mm(Both Regular and Super 16) gear.
Cheaper--
Super8 cameras are a steal. They can go for next to nothing at thrift stores or eBay. Some good names are Beaulieu, Nizo, Eumig, Sankyo, Canon, Elmo and more. They can go well over 1000 USD but if you shop around and find one that fits your needs you shouldn't pay more than 500USD.
Cheap--
16mm cameras are dropping in price. You can find a great MOS(Loud) R16 for a couple hundred Dollars. Some names to look for on eBay or other places are--Arriflex(S, SB, ST and M), Canon Scoopic, Bolex and Filmo. These cameras won't hold sync or if they do they will be really loud and hard to record sound over but to get into 16mm for Super8 prices look at these.
More--
There is a whole range of R16mm cameras out there that are quiet enough to shoot sync but are loud by today's standards. These cameras include the Arriflex BL(Loudest of the lot), Eclair ACL and Eclair NPR. You might even be able to find an Arriflex SR1 for a song and dance if you look around and keep your eyes and ears open.
Most---
Super16 is the "Go To" format out side of 35mm. This is due to its 1:66 aspect ratio and its cheap cost in comparison. It is the ideal format for HD work too. Some cameras to keep an eye out for are Aaton LTR54, Aaton XTR(Plus and Prod), Arriflex SR1,2 and 3. All of these cameras will be quiet for sync work with the Aaton's being more quiet than the Arri's. Look at spending around 10,000USD to get into these cameras. Which is still cheaper than HD and you get better results!!
Film is far from dead. If you want to get your movie watched and taken seriously you need to be shooting film. Besides you are a "Filmmaker" right??
Good Luck
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