Dailies

Definition

Dailies are the raw, unedited footage that is shot during a film or television production, reviewed by the director and other key team members to assess the quality of the shots. This process allows filmmakers to evaluate performances, visual elements, and technical aspects of each scene in real-time, ensuring that the production stays on track and any necessary adjustments can be made quickly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dailies are typically reviewed the day after filming, allowing for immediate feedback and quick decision-making on set.
2. Viewing dailies helps identify any issues with lighting, sound, or performance, so adjustments can be made in subsequent takes.
3. Dailies can be screened for the entire crew or just key personnel like directors, cinematographers, and producers.
4. The term 'dailies' comes from the fact that this process occurs daily during production, emphasizing its importance in maintaining quality control.
5. With advancements in technology, dailies can now be viewed digitally almost immediately after shooting, enhancing collaboration and communication among the production team.

Review Questions

• How do dailies contribute to the decision-making process during film production?
  • Dailies play a crucial role in decision-making by allowing filmmakers to review the footage from the previous day's shoot. This immediate feedback helps identify any issues with performances, technical aspects, or visual storytelling. By assessing dailies promptly, directors and producers can make necessary adjustments or changes before continuing with further filming, ensuring that the production maintains its vision and quality.
• Discuss the technological advancements that have impacted how dailies are produced and reviewed in modern filmmaking.
  • Technological advancements have transformed the production and review of dailies significantly. The shift from traditional film to digital recording has allowed for faster processing times, enabling filmmakers to view dailies almost immediately after shooting. Additionally, digital platforms facilitate remote viewing, allowing crew members from different locations to access and provide feedback on footage. This connectivity enhances collaboration among team members, streamlining communication during the filmmaking process.
• Evaluate the impact of reviewing dailies on the overall quality of a film's final cut and its implications for audience reception.
  • Reviewing dailies directly influences the overall quality of a film's final cut by providing filmmakers with an opportunity to refine performances and technical elements before editing begins. This proactive approach ensures that any potential issues are addressed early on, leading to a more polished final product. As a result, films that undergo thorough daily reviews often resonate better with audiences due to improved storytelling and execution, ultimately contributing to their success at the box office or in critical reception.

Related terms

rushes: Rushes refer to the initial unedited footage from a day's filming that is viewed by the filmmakers to evaluate scenes and performances.

screening: A screening is a private showing of a film or video, often used for dailies or test audiences to gather feedback on the content.

post-production: Post-production is the phase following filming where editing, sound design, and visual effects are added to complete the final version of the project.