The entertainment industry, a dazzling world of creativity and commerce, thrives on its own unique lexicon. From Hollywood to Broadway, and beyond, a vibrant slang permeates every aspect, from behind-the-scenes dealings to the red carpet glamour. This deep dive explores the slang frequently used in the entertainment industry, providing context and shedding light on its evolution.
What's the slang used in the entertainment industry?
This is a broad question, as the specific slang varies depending on the specific niche within the industry (film, television, theatre, music, etc.). However, some terms are more universally understood. Here are a few key examples:
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"Above the line" (ATL): Refers to the creative personnel whose fees are typically larger, such as actors, writers, and directors. This contrasts with "below the line" (BTL) costs, which cover crew salaries and other production expenses.
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"Below the line" (BTL): As mentioned above, this encompasses all the costs associated with the technical aspects of production, including crew, equipment rentals, location fees, etc.
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"Back-end deal": A profit participation agreement where individuals (often actors or directors) receive a percentage of the film's or show's profits after the initial costs are recouped. This is a significant part of many high-profile contracts.
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"Casting couch": This term refers to the (unfortunately still relevant) practice of sexual exploitation or coercion in exchange for roles in the industry. It’s a dark side of the industry that is increasingly being addressed and condemned.
What are some common slang terms for specific roles?
The industry often uses shorthand for various roles and processes. Understanding this can help decipher industry conversations and articles.
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Showrunner: The head writer and executive producer who has overall creative control over a television series. This is a key role in shaping the narrative and tone of a show.
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Gaffer: The head electrician on a film or television production. They're responsible for the lighting setup and overall look of the scenes.
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Grip: A member of the film crew responsible for setting up and operating camera equipment, dollies, and other support structures.
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DP (Director of Photography): The head of the camera department, responsible for the visual look of the film or television show.
What are some slang terms for movies and TV shows?
Even the products themselves have unique terminology within the industry.
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"Pilot": The first episode of a television series, often used to gauge audience interest and determine whether the show will be picked up for a full season.
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"Greenlit": When a project receives approval for production; essentially, it gets the "go-ahead."
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"Table read": A rehearsal where actors read the script aloud for the first time, often used to identify potential issues or improve the script.
What are some slang terms related to marketing and promotion?
The buzz surrounding a project is often discussed using specialized jargon:
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"Hype train": Describes the growing excitement and anticipation surrounding a project's release.
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"Viral marketing": Using social media and other online platforms to generate widespread interest in a project organically.
How does industry slang evolve?
Entertainment industry slang is constantly evolving, reflecting changes in technology, social trends, and the industry itself. New terms emerge as new platforms and production methods are adopted. The language adapts to reflect the shifting landscape of the business, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing vocabulary.
Conclusion
The entertainment industry's slang is a colourful and ever-evolving reflection of its vibrant and complex nature. Understanding this vocabulary provides a deeper appreciation of the creative process, the business dealings, and the unique culture that defines this multifaceted world. This jargon, while sometimes cryptic to outsiders, acts as a form of shorthand and insider knowledge, fostering a sense of community and shared experience amongst those working within the industry.
