Top 10 Filmmaking Terms That I Love
Top 10 Filmmaking Terms That I Love
Filmmaking Terms can be obscure, here are a few of my most favorite dictionary terms from the Modern Filmmaker's On Set Filmmaking Dictionary.
As editor of the Modern Filmmaker’s On Set Filmmaking Dictionary, I am often asked what are my top ten filmmaking terms that I love. There are so many brilliantly obscure ones but here are a few of my favorite filmmaking terms.
Enjoy these top filmmaking terms:
10-1
10-100 or 10-1 - (Production) - A term used on set to indicate a quick restroom break. "10-100" typically refers to needing to urinate, while "10-1" is also used interchangeably for the same purpose. The director called for a quick 10-1 before the next take.
Abby Singer Shot
Abby Singer Shot - (Production) - The second-to-last shot of the day, named after assistant director Abby Singer, who would often call out the penultimate shot to give the crew a heads-up. Everyone prepared for the wrap as the Abby Singer shot was announced.
Against Type
Against Type - (Pre-production) - Casting an actor in a role that is opposite or different from the type of characters they are typically known for playing. The comedian was cast against type as the villain, surprising audiences with his dramatic performance.
Duvetyn
Duvetyn - (Equipment) - A heavy, black, light-absorbing fabric used to block out light or create dark backgrounds on set, commonly used in lighting and set design. Duvetyn was draped over the windows to ensure complete darkness for the night scene.
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Favored Nations
Favored Nations - (Industry) - A contractual clause ensuring that an actor or crew member receives the same terms or compensation as others of the same rank or role in the production. The actor's contract included a favored nations clause, guaranteeing equal pay with the other leads in the film.
Grip Cart
Grip Cart - (Equipment) - A mobile cart used by the grip department to transport and organize tools, clamps, stands, and other grip equipment on set. The grips kept their gear organized on the grip cart, ensuring everything was easily accessible during the shoot.
Holding the Roll
Holding the Roll - (Production) - A practice where the camera continues to roll after the director calls "cut," often to capture spontaneous or unexpected moments from the actors or scene. The director instructed the cameraman to keep holding the roll in case the actor added an improvised line.
Moving On
Moving On - (Production) - A phrase used on set to indicate that a scene or shot is complete and the crew will proceed to the next setup. After the director was satisfied with the take, they called out 'Moving on!' signaling the crew to prepare for the next scene.
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Overcranking
Overcranking - (Production) - A technique where the camera is run at a faster-than-normal speed, resulting in slow-motion footage when played back at standard frame rates. The action sequence was overcranked to add dramatic slow-motion effects during the explosion.
Quick Clamp
Quick Clamp - (Equipment) - A type of clamp used to quickly and securely attach equipment, such as lights or cameras, to various surfaces or rigging structures on set. The grip used a quick clamp to fasten the light to the rigging structure in just a few seconds.
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