Glossary

Comprehensive glossary of filmmaking terms, concepts, and techniques.

Showing 10 terms

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Search: "general-release"

3

3D Movie

A film presented using stereoscopic technology to create the perception of depth, requiring special glasses for the illusion to work.

Specialized & NicheFoundational

B

Blockbuster

A high-budget film with mass-market appeal designed to generate very large box office returns, often as part of a franchise.

Business & FinanceFoundational

Bootleg

An unauthorized copy of a film, recording, or broadcast, distributed without the rights holder's permission.

Business & FinanceFoundational

Box Office

The total revenue a film generates from ticket sales at cinemas, measuring commercial performance.

Business & FinanceFoundational

L

Limited Release

A distribution strategy opening a film on few screens to build word of mouth before wider expansion.

Distribution & MarketsFoundational

M

MPAA

The trade association representing major Hollywood studios that administers the voluntary US film rating system.

Business & FinanceFoundational

N

Nickelodeon

An early American cinema venue charging five cents for short film programmes, circa 1905 to 1915.

Distribution & MarketsIntermediate

P

Pre-Screening

A screening of a film held before its public release for critics, industry professionals, test audiences, or awards voters.

Business & FinanceFoundational

R

Roadshow

A prestigious exhibition strategy in which a major film is shown in select venues at premium prices, with reserved seating and an intermission, before general release.

Distribution & MarketsIntermediate

S

Screener

A copy of a film distributed to critics, awards voters, and industry professionals for evaluation before release.

Distribution & MarketsFoundational