What does b roll mean Meaning and Definition
What does b roll mean
Pronunciation
/ˈb ˈr oʊl m iːn/
Part of Speech
Noun or Adjective
Definition
In filmmaking, “b roll” refers to supplementary footage shot to enhance a scene or provide additional context. It often consists of extra takes, cutaways, or scenic shots not essential to the main story.
Examples
- The director requested more b roll to capture the atmosphere of the city streets.
- The editor used a combination of cutaways and b roll to add depth to the narrative.
Synonyms
- Supplementary footage
- Extra takes
- Off-camera shots
Etymology
The term “b roll” originated in the 1970s, when a roll of film containing supplementary footage was often labeled with the letter “B” to distinguish it from the main “A-roll” footage.
Usage Notes
When using b roll, filmmakers often aim to capture additional details or perspectives that can enhance the storytelling process.
Cultural References
In popular culture, b roll has been referenced in films, TV shows, and music videos. For example, the movie “Memento” (2000) features a memorable scene with a director requesting more b roll.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“B-roll it” is a common idiomatic phrase used in the film industry, meaning to shoot supplementary footage.
Related Words or Phrases
Actions, cutaways, takes, and coverage are all related terms in the context of b roll filming.
Collocations
B roll is often used in conjunction with action words like “capture,” “shoot,” “record,” and “film.” It is also frequently paired with adverbs like “more,” “additional,” and “extra.”
Frequency of Use
B roll is a commonly used term in the film and video production industries, particularly in post-production and editing.
Common Misspellings
Misspellings of “b roll” may include “b-roll”, “brroll”, or “b-roll-meaning”, which can lead to incorrect search results or miscommunication.