Film terms: do you speak the language of the movie world?
Whether you are an actor, model or crew member, understanding common film and casting terminology can help you feel more confident during auditions and on set.
From action and call time to self-tape, shortlist and buy-out, this guide explains common film and casting terms you may encounter before, during and after a production.
Action
The director's cue for the cast to begin performing. “Action!” signals that the scene should start.
ADR (automated dialogue replacement)
The process of re-recording dialogue in a sound studio after filming. ADR may be used to improve sound quality, replace unclear dialogue or make changes to the script.
Buy-out
A buy-out refers to the usage rights purchased by a client for a talent's performance. Usage is usually agreed based on factors such as duration, territory and media or platforms, such as TV, online or social media. Read more about usage and buy-out terms in our
General Booking Conditions.
Call sheet
A document containing the day's shoot schedule and practical information for cast and crew. It usually includes your call time, location, wardrobe or costume information and other important production details.
Call time
The specific time you are expected to arrive at the location. Always check your call sheet carefully and allow enough time to arrive prepared and ready to work.
Callback
A second audition or casting following an initial audition. A callback may be used to see your performance again, try different direction or meet with the director or client.
Casting
The process of selecting actors, models and other talent for a production. At Thea Meulenberg Casting, we work with production companies, advertising agencies and brands to find the right talent for commercial productions. Read more in our
FAQ about castings.
Continuity
Keeping visual and performance details consistent between takes and scenes. This can include costumes, props, positions, movements and other details.
Coverage
Additional shots and angles filmed to give the editor enough material to create the final production. This can include close-ups, wide shots and different angles of the same scene.
Eye line
The direction in which an actor should look during a shot. The correct eye line helps create a believable connection with another actor or an off-camera point.
First positions
The starting positions for the actors in a scene. After a take, the director or production team may ask everyone to return to “first positions” before filming again.
Holding area
The designated area where talent waits between scenes, setups or takes. You may be asked to remain there until the production team is ready for you.
Hold or pencil
A temporary indication that you may be required for a production on a particular date. Being on hold does not mean that you are confirmed or booked. The production will normally confirm whether the booking is going ahead.
In the can
A traditional film expression meaning that a shot or scene has been successfully filmed and is considered complete.
Pick-up
A small section of a scene that is filmed again after the main filming, often to correct an issue or capture additional footage.
Prop
A physical object used or handled by an actor during a scene, such as a coffee cup, phone, book or bag.
Self-tape
A video audition recorded by an actor or model and submitted to the casting team or production. A self-tape may include a performance, introduction or specific instructions from the casting brief. Read our
tips for creating a professional self-tape audition.
Shortlist
A smaller selection of talent chosen from the initial casting options. Being shortlisted means you are being considered for the production, but it does not mean that you are booked.
Slate
A short introduction recorded at the beginning of a self-tape or casting video. Depending on the casting brief, a slate may include your name, age, location, agency and other relevant information.
Standby
A production cue meaning that filming is about to begin and everyone involved should be ready. “Standby” may be followed by the director calling “Action”.
Second unit
A separate film crew that shoots additional footage, often including establishing shots, locations or action sequences, while the main unit works on other parts of the production.
Wrap
The end of filming for a scene, shoot or production. When the production team says, “That's a wrap”, it means filming has finished.
Final tip
Knowing common film and casting terminology can help you feel more confident, prepared and professional, whether you are attending an audition or working on set.