filming and editing
an abrupt transition from one scene to another
jump cut
a comedy that imitates or makes fun of an existing work(s) in an absurd, non-sensical way, and exaggerates its characteristics
parody
the lead or main character in a film; also known as hero/heroine; contrast to antagonist.
protagonist
a short publicity film, preview, or advertisement composed of short excerpts and scenes from a forthcoming film or coming attraction, usually two-three minutes in length; often presented at the showing of another film
trailer
dramatic ending, which often leaves the viewer unsatisfied, where the plot ending and the fate of the protagonist(s) are left unresolved. To be continued...
cliffhanger
an unmoving or immobile camera shot that is stationary, due to the use of a tripod
static shot
an excessively-sentimental or emotional film, usually with suffering female protagonists, tragic circumstances, manipulative scenes, and dramatic musical scoring.
chick-flick, tearjerker
... is used when needed skilled replacement for dangerous stunts.
stunt double
laid down for major ceremonies (film premieres, awards ceremonies) to signify an important, honorary event
red carpet
refers to an effect resulting from running film through a camera at faster-than-normal speed (shooting faster than 24 frames per second), and then projecting it at standard speed
slow-motion
a type of shot that tightly frames a person or object
close-up
refers to a derivative work (film or TV), either a sequel or a prequel which includes characters from the previous original product
spin-off
... is used for exposed close-ups, nude scenes and scenes requiring physical fitness.
body double
an actual error or mistake (misplaced action, or mis-spoken dialogue by a performer), usually embarrassing or humorous, made by a performer during filming.
blooper
the first official public screening of a movie, marking the kick-off, opening or opening night
premiere
the last shot of the day
Martini shot
the common term used for films with sound (beginning in 1927), although rarely used currently.
talkie
physically similiar person to an actor used for lengthy preparation of a scene (the taking of light meter readings, camera setup, light adjustment, etc.) but not during filming.
stand-in
a short, concluding scene in a film in which characters (sometimes older) reflect on the preceding events
epilogue
anything in a film, usually following the film's high point, crescendo, or climax, in which there is an unsatisfying and disappointing let-down of emotion, or what is expected doesn't occur
anti-climax
refers to a camera technique created by tracking backwards while simultaneously zooming in, making the person or object in the center of the image seem stationary while their surroundings change; aka contrazoom
vertigo effect, dolly zoom
a special-effects animation technique where objects, such as solid 3-D puppets, figures, or models are shot one frame at a time and moved or repositioned slightly between each frame, giving the illusion of lifelike motion
stop-motion (animation)
The pseudonym used by directors who refuse to put their name on a film and want to disassociate themselves
Alan Smithee
a dramatic monologue delivered by a single actor with no one else onstage; sometimes expressed as a 'thinking aloud' dialogue of inner reflections; delivered by a character to him or herself, or directly to the audience
soliloquy
refers to a bit part (usually a brief, non-speaking or walk-on role that is uncredited or unbilled) or special screen appearance by a famous actor, director, or prominent person who would ordinarily not take such a small part
cameo