Glossary

Comprehensive glossary of filmmaking terms, concepts, and techniques.

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Search: "above-the-line"

A

Above the Line

The creative talent costs in a film budget — writer, director, producer, and principal cast — negotiated before production begins.

ProductionIntermediate

Actor

A person who performs a role in a film, embodying a character through voice, body, and presence.

ProductionFoundational

B

Below the Line

The operational production costs in a film budget — crew, equipment, locations, sets, and post-production — managed by the line producer.

ProductionIntermediate

C

Cast

The collective group of actors performing roles in a film.

ProductionFoundational

Credits

The on-screen acknowledgment of everyone who contributed to making a film, displayed at the opening or close.

ProductionFoundational

L

Line Producer

The production professional responsible for managing the below-the-line budget and day-to-day financial operations of a film.

ProductionIntermediate

P

Pay or Play

A contract clause guaranteeing that a talent will be paid their full fee whether or not the film is ultimately produced.

Business & FinanceIntermediate

U

Union

A labour organisation representing film industry workers that negotiates collective agreements covering wages, working conditions, and creative rights.

Business & FinanceIntermediate