What film camera should I get?

you might consider buying used NIKON FM10 35mm Camera

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006I5JN?ie=UTF...

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...

I still use my film cameras when I want to have fun! My favorite is a 1965 Minolta SR-1. It's all mechanical--no light meter and no battery--but I still manage to get good photos out of it, a few of which are on my walls.

I wouldn't be afraid to buy a manual film camera and a single 50mm lens that was out of the Canon system. (There is merit to buying an Elan, because the lenses are compatible. But, there is no need to. You can buy a decent older camera on eBay for less than a hundred bucks, and have plenty of money left over to replace the light seals if you need to.

For a more challenging experience, get a Praktica L or a Zenit E. They have no lightmeters and are very cheap. A Pentax with a non-working lightmeter will also do. You could find cheap manual 50mm f/2 lenses for them. Anything faster may cost more than a secondhand dSLR. Learn to meter with your eyes and brain. When you get the hang of it, you'll be much better with your dSLR.

You will love the Praktica L for its very light weight. The Zenit E is like a tank to hold but offers very limited shutter speeds. A Pentax SP will cost more but will last longer even if abused a bit.

http://www.fredparker.com/ultexp1.htm

Have you priced those 50 mm lenses you mentioned - way more than $200.

Lots of people swear by ebay for film cameras. But, be careful because there's lots of scammers there.

Good Luck, film can be fun. I don't do it any longer, color me spoiled by quick and easy digital files.

I've been shooting digital now for about 10-years and learn something every time I pick up the camera.

There are various possibilities in the used department. A camera in new condition that fits your budget and specs is the Promaster 2500pk Super. The lens is a Pentax K mount.

http://www.idahocamera.com/browse.cfm/promaster-25...