What are the best Film Dictionaries?
A film dictionary, often referred to as a filmmaking glossary or Dictionary of film terminology, it is a resource that provides definitions and explanations of terms, concepts, and jargon related to the world of filmmaking and Cinema. These Dictionaries are designed to help both enthusiasts and professionals understand the various technical, artistic, and industry-specific terms used in the field of film.
Film dictionaries typically cover a wide range of topics, including film definition and meaning as well as:
- Filmmaking Terminologies: Definitions of terms related to cinematography, lighting, sound design, film editing, special effects, and other technical aspects of filmmaking.
- Film Genres: Explanations of different film genres and sub-genres, along with the characteristics that define them.
- Film Industry Jargons: Terms commonly used in the film industry, such as "blockbuster," "green screen," "pitch," and "film distribution."
- Film Theories: Concepts and terms related to film theory and criticism, helping readers understand the intellectual and artistic aspects of cinema.
- Film Professionals’ Roles: Definitions of roles in the film industry, including film directors, film producers, cinematographers, and actors, along with terms related to their work.
- History of Motion Pictures: Information about historical events, movements, and cultural references that are relevant to the world of film.
These filmmaking knowledge bank serve as valuable references for filmmakers, students, critics, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the language and concepts associated with filmmaking. They can be found in various formats, including printed books, online resources, and mobile apps.
Film dictionaries can be found on both hard copy as well as soft copy.
Here are a few notable film dictionaries and reference books that cover a wide range of topics related to filmmaking, film history, and film terminology:
- "The Oxford Companion to Film" by Liz-Anne Bawden: A comprehensive guide covering various aspects of film, including directors, actors, film movements, and genres.
- "The Film Encyclopedia" by Ephraim Katz: An extensive reference work providing information on films, filmmakers, actors, and cinematic terminology.
- "The New Biographical Dictionary of Film" by David Thomson:A biographical reference book offering insights into key figures in the film industry, accompanied by critical analyses of their work.
- "Dictionary of Film Terms: The Aesthetic Companion to Film Art" by Frank Eugene Beaver: A resource for understanding the technical and aesthetic aspects of filmmaking, covering terminology related to cinematography, editing, and sound.
- "The Hollywood Standard: The Complete and Authoritative Guide to Script Format and Style" by Christopher Riley:While not a traditional film dictionary, this book is a valuable guide for understanding screenplay formatting and style.
- "A Dictionary of Film Studies" by Annette Kuhn and Guy Westwell: Focuses on key concepts and terms related to film studies, making it useful for students and enthusiasts interested in the academic aspects of film.
These books provide a wealth of information for those interested in expanding their knowledge of filmmaking. Whether you're looking for information on specific movies, filmmakers, technical aspects of filmmaking, or film theory, these dictionaries can be valuable resources.
Some several online resources and websites provide extensive filmmaking glossaries and Dictionary of Film Studies related to cinema terminologies. Here are a few examples:
- Film Reference Glossary
The Film Reference Glossary is an online resource that provides definitions and explanations for a wide range of film-related terms. Here are some key features and information about this glossary:
- The Film Reference Glossary is part of com, a comprehensive online film resource that covers various aspects of filmmaking knowledge.
- The Film Encyclopaedia is designed to help users understand the filmmaking terminology used in the world of film, covering both technical and theoretical terms.
The Filmsite Movie Terminology Glossary is an online resource that provides definitions and explanations for a wide range of film-related terms. Here are some key features and information about this film glossary:
- This filmmaking glossary is part of Filmsite, a comprehensive online film resource that includes reviews, articles, and other film-related content.
- It covers a diverse array of film terms, encompassing terminology related to various aspects of filmmaking, genres, and cinematic techniques.
- This glossary of filmmaking is organized alphabetically, making it easy for users to look up specific cinematic terms of interest.
- It includes terms from different categories, such as cinematography, editing, sound, genres, and industry-related jargon.
- The filmmaking glossary provides definitions for technical terms used in filmmaking, helping users understand the filmmaking terminology associated with the production process.
- It includes terms related to different film genres, allowing users to explore the characteristics and conventions of various film types.
- Industry jargon and terms commonly used in film discussions are also covered, aiding in the comprehension of the broader film landscape.
Cinecyclopedia is the online free encyclopedia for film and entertainment industry developed by the World Film Communities Network (WFCN) Contributors Club. “Cinecyclopedia, is dedicated to spreading knowledge and information about the art, craft, and business of cinema, aligning with our core vision of enriching the global film community by providing a filmmaking knowledge bank”. With an unwavering commitment to fostering understanding and appreciation of the cinematic world.
Cinecyclopedia is a creation of the World Film Communities Network Contributors Club, a community of passionate filmmakers and film industry professionals who share a common mission: to inform, educate & entertain.
Here are some important aspects of Cinecyclopedia:
- It aims at empowering individuals with filmmaking terminologies, for the growth and development of the global film industry.
- It stands as an open data resource which stands as the dictionary of film studies.
- Cinecyclopedia is designed solely for the purpose of film knowledge acquisition.
- This Glossary of Motion Pictures is committed to educate and enlighten filmmakers to present accurate, unbiased, and well-researched content. Every article, analysis, and insight shared on this platform is aimed at fostering understanding and appreciation of cinema. It encourages users to explore, learn, and engage with the film world.
- Cinecyclopedia is dedicated to making people aware of film terminology, cinema technology and the intricate web of businesses that drive the world film.
- This dictionary of film studies understands the nuances of cinematography, by deciphering film jargon, or gaining insights into the economics of filmmaking, and by provide the resources to enlighten and empower the throne of filmmakers.
StudioBinder is primarily known as a production management platform for filmmakers, providing tools and features for various aspects of the filmmaking process. However, StudioBinder does specifically offer a film dictionary in the traditional way where a filmmaker can search cinematic verses.
Conclusion
A film dictionary serves as a valuable resource for individuals interested in the world of cinema, whether they are enthusiasts, students, or professionals. These dictionaries compile and define terms related to filmmaking, film theory, genres, and industry jargon. They can be found in both traditional print formats and as online resources, each offering distinct advantages.
Web film dictionaries provide accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing for quick searches, multimedia enhancements, and potential interactivity. They often include the latest updates and may link to external resources, contributing to a dynamic and comprehensive learning experience.
On the other hand, book film dictionaries exist in print format, offering a tangible resource that one can annotate and reference offline. While lacking the dynamic features of web-based resources, they provide a focused and in-depth exploration of film terminology within the confines of the physical book.
Ultimately, the choice between a web film dictionary and a book film dictionary depends on individual preferences, learning styles, and the specific needs of the user. Both formats contribute to the understanding and appreciation of the rich language and concepts associated with the art and craft of filmmaking.
