U

A ¾-inch magnetic tape in a professional cassette format; it has been replaced in recent years by new digital formats. It was a tape format that competed with Beta and VHS but offered lower quality than those formats.

A brand of portable audio recording devices. It is not widely used today.

A sophisticated cleaning machine used in a lab to clean negatives before transferring them to print or video. It uses sound waves to shake off dust.

An expensive and sophisticated splicing machine used to join polyester-based film stock.

Morüstü

A reflector used to direct light onto a subject. It provides soft light without creating a hot spot.

Generally, a “supporting” role for a lead (or sometimes a minor) actor is one that is officially credited (usually in the end credits), but is not mentioned or listed in film advertisements or the opening credits.

A role played by a leading (or supporting) actor who is not credited in the film’s credits or on the movie poster.

Refers to an acting performance that is understated, neutral, and light.

Low Speed

The process of slowing down a camera’s frame rate. This is typically achieved by shooting at a slower rate than the standard 24 frames per second. This causes the captured images to appear as if they are in motion.

Underexposed

Underexposed

The act of photographing an image with less light than the intended exposure. This results in a dimly lit, indistinct image and is the opposite of an overexposed shot.

A term used from the late 1950s to the early 1970s to describe films with experimental, rebellious, bohemian themes, or those aimed at a niche audience.

See: Breakdown.

Short Take

Underwater Housing

Underwater Photography

An organization that represents the best interests of a specific professional group within the film industry. There are unions for writers, actors, directors, and most film crew members. Unions negotiate contracts, advocate for rights, and secure recognition. Therefore, there are specific rules and regulations to follow when working with unions.

Union, Guild

The team working on the production of a film (CREW).

Crew Chief, Production Manager

Production Manager

A member of the public relations department working on-site during a film production. Their duties include organizing press visits and electronic press kit interviews. In addition, the unit publicist compiles biographical materials and notes related to the film’s production and later turns them into the film’s press kit. Unit publicists are itinerant—they move from one production to another and are listed on the production payroll.

Universal Amors

An insult directed at someone who violates professional conduct rules during a crisis. The term is most often used by people to whom it could equally apply.

A character we follow in the story but who lacks a certain degree of reliability. These narrators may lack all the information necessary to adequately convey the story to the audience, or they may have obvious biases.

Expand

A editing machine with arms on the back, designed to hold the take-up and supply reels. The film moves toward a screen at the front. A foot pedal is used to control the sound speed and variable-speed playback motors.

Masking, Stealing the Spotlight

The rearmost section of a set, furthest from the camera.

A crew member who assists in various departments on set.

It refers to an imaginary, ideal (or mythical), perfect state or place (particularly in terms of its laws, government, and social and moral conditions), which typically possesses magical, healing, and restorative qualities.