In this engaging discussion, Jirí Anger, a scholar and archivist from Queen Mary University of London, dives deep into his innovative book, which advocates for a unique perspective on film theory from the ground up. He explores 'accidental aesthetics,' highlighting how flaws and imperfections in archival films reveal their creative potential. Anger tackles vital questions about agency in film preservation, the ethics of manipulation, and how these elements reshape our understanding of cinematic history. His insights challenge traditional views and celebrate the unexpected beauty of film's material traces.