Is there any footage available from major motion pictures in .r3d form?

[mikeburton]

There's no disrespect intended in my post either. Just speaking from a point of view that has been in your shoes before, eager to learn. Nor am I trying to sound like an old man either, but in all honesty it is 1000% easier to learn the craft today than it was 12 years ago when I started. I did some traditional telecine work as an internship at my school and watched / learned from the in house telecine colorist as well as paid money to sit with a great colorist at Retina when they were still around in SF. And although the tools are a available to you doesn't replace working side by side with a senior colorist.
I wish you luck in your efforts. Although I wouldn't expect the files you are asking about to come out of their vaults anytime soon.