Slang for the Entertainment Industry: A New York Times Perspective
The entertainment industry, a dazzling world of premieres, power lunches, and late-night brainstorming sessions, thrives on its own unique lexicon. From Hollywood to Broadway, and encompassing everything from streaming services to independent film, a vibrant slang permeates the daily conversations and internal communications of those who work within it. This isn't just jargon; it's a reflection of the industry's fast-paced, ever-evolving nature, its inherent drama, and its often-cynical humor. This exploration delves into some of the most common slang terms, offering insights into their origins and meanings, and providing a glimpse into the culture of the entertainment world.
What are some common slang terms used in the entertainment industry?
This question touches on the core of our topic. The sheer volume of slang used within the industry is vast, and its usage often depends on specific roles and sub-sectors. However, some terms are ubiquitous. Here are a few examples, along with their meanings and contexts:
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"A-List": Refers to the top tier of actors, directors, and other creative professionals. Being "A-list" denotes significant fame, influence, and high earning potential.
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"B-List" and "C-List": Represent descending levels of prominence below the A-List, indicating lesser-known but still working professionals.
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"Above the line" (ATL): This designates the creative personnel who receive larger fees and are generally more involved in the overall creative direction of a project, such as directors, actors, writers, and producers.
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"Below the line" (BTL): This refers to the technical crew, such as editors, cinematographers, sound designers, and grips, who are crucial to production but often receive less prominent billing and compensation.
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"Greenlit": A project that has received official approval for production. This signifies the go-ahead after passing through various stages of development.
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"Table read": A reading of a script aloud, usually by the actors, to gauge the pacing, delivery, and overall feel before filming begins.
What slang terms are specific to film or television production?
Within the film and television industry, specialized slang abounds. Examples include:
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"Dailies": The raw, unedited footage shot each day.
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"Pick-ups": Additional scenes filmed after the main production has wrapped, usually to address continuity issues or add scenes deemed necessary after initial editing.
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"Call sheet": A document detailing the day's shooting schedule, locations, and personnel involved.
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"Wrap": The official completion of filming for a project.
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"Reshoots": Re-filming certain scenes, often due to creative changes, performance issues, or technical difficulties.
What slang is specific to the theater or Broadway?
Broadway and the wider theatrical world have their own distinct slang:
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"House": Refers to the auditorium where the audience sits.
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"The boards": A more poetic term referring to the stage itself.
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"Curtain call": The final bow at the end of the performance.
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"Break a leg": A common expression of good luck, a superstitious alternative to "good luck," believed to avoid jinxing the performance.
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"Previews": Performances before the official opening night, allowing the cast and crew to refine the show.
How has slang in the entertainment industry evolved with the rise of streaming?
The rise of streaming platforms has introduced new slang and recontextualized existing terms. For example, "binge-watching" has entered mainstream language, while terms like "content," "IP" (intellectual property), and "algorithm" have taken on new significance as streaming services battle for viewers and original content.
What are some less common or more obscure terms used in the entertainment industry?
The industry is rife with insider jokes and less-common terms. Many are ephemeral, tied to specific projects or eras. However, researching specific production companies, studios, or genres can often unearth these hidden terms within production notes, interviews, or industry publications.
Conclusion:
The slang used within the entertainment industry reflects its vibrant, constantly evolving nature. Understanding this language offers a key to deciphering the conversations, dynamics, and inner workings of this captivating world. From the A-list to the call sheet, these terms are more than just words; they are building blocks of the industry's culture, a testament to its creative spirit and its distinctive character.
