Film Dailies Explained

What is it?

"Dailies," also called "rushes," are the raw, unedited footage from a day's film shoot. The name comes from the historical practice of rushing film to a lab for next-day viewing. In today's digital workflow, this footage is available almost immediately. Dailies include every take and camera angle, offering a transparent first look at the day's work before any editing or visual effects are applied. They are a foundational element of the production process, showing exactly what was captured on set.

Why is it trending?

The review process for dailies is a constant in showbiz, evolving with technology. Secure cloud platforms now allow directors and producers to review footage instantly from anywhere, streamlining international productions. This rapid feedback loop is essential for quality control. The creative team can immediately check actor performances, lighting, and camera work, ensuring everything aligns with the project's vision. Catching potential issues at this stage is crucial for saving time and money by avoiding expensive reshoots later on.

How does it affect people?

For the cast and crew, dailies offer critical feedback to refine their work. For producers, they serve as a vital progress report. Although audiences never see this raw footage, its impact on the final film is immense. This daily quality check ensures continuity is maintained, performances are strong, and the technical execution is flawless. The meticulous review of dailies is a behind-the-scenes step that directly contributes to the polished, high-quality movie or show viewers enjoy.

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