Film vs Movie: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve just entered the film industry or the production industry, and you’re one to say “movie” frequently. There’s a good chance you’ll find yourself reprimanded. There’s actually somewhat of a public battle when it comes to the use of the terms film vs movie. And while some will say they’re both one in the same, anyone in the professional world of filmmaking will almost certainly disagree! But what’s the difference between film vs movie and is it really so much to fuss about?
The two words are frequently interchanged. But there are instances in which it is just widely accepted that interchanging the terms is incorrect.
For example, is a movie critic the same as a film critic? Why are there film festivals and not movie festivals? And what makes one person a movie-goer but never a film-goer?
What is a Film?
Like a movie, a film is a motion picture but there’s more to it. Technically, motion pictures represent a unique art form in which ideas, emotions or feelings, and stories are expressed.
However, when the term “film” is used to describe a motion picture. It is often done so in references to industry specific elements.
For example, those who are part of the film industry prefer the use of the word “film” over the use of the word “movie.”
They will even resort to the use of the word “motion picture” over “movie” too. Almost as if “movie” is not technically correct in any instance.
Amidst the ongoing debate between film and movie, it’s essential to highlight the role of skilled camera crews in bringing any cinematic vision to life.
Take, for example, our Chicago Camera Crew. Their expertise is not confined to just understanding the technical nuances of filmmaking but also to capturing the essence of the narrative, whether it falls under the category of a ‘film’ or a ‘movie.’
This precision and dedication are what set projects apart, particularly in a city as culturally and artistically rich as Chicago.
Collaborating with a team that seamlessly adapts to the artistic demands and the language of cinema can elevate the production quality, embodying the true spirit of both films and movies.
Consider This
Certain genres require the use of the word film vs movie, too. For example, those genres that tend to have a smaller audience following that’s almost more cult-like in style are generally referred to as film.
We see this in documentary “Films” and biography “films” and also in things like independent “film.”
Thus, films are produced with the primary goal of provoking thought, providing education, or otherwise offering information.
The term “film” typically provides a sense of connection to art. And can also be used to describe short films, feature-films, and various other forms of film. Including clips and individual genre specific use. Whereas movie tends to be only used for a feature film.
What is a Movie?
While those in the film industry tend to err on the side of using the term “film” rather than “movie”. When it comes to the difference between film vs movie the biggest and most widely accepted difference in the terms is in the length and style of the video.
Movie is the chosen terminology for many Americans to describe motion pictures. Especially those that are full-feature length. And which are shown in theaters or on cable television.
Film vs Movie
Although the terms film vs movie is frequently used interchangeably by those who are not part of the technical field of filmmaking. Anyone who is in the industry will almost certainly not use the two words in the same capacity.
While both film and movie refer to the art of motion pictures. Which represents a series of images that are projected onto a screen.
Such that there is the illusion of motion. There are characteristic differences between the terms film vs movie that professionals are almost certain to call out.
In Summation
While there is not a technically provided difference between the terms film vs movie. And while both refer to motion pictures. It is generally accepted that a film is any form of motion picture that is of the independent film style. Or within the documentary or biography genres.
Film is also the chosen term for old movies. As well as for those that are not produced in the mainstream. Likewise, movie is the chosen term in America. Used by most U.S. citizens to describe motion pictures that are shown in public theaters.
So the consensus is that when examining the difference between film vs movie. Anyone in the industry will use the term film but those who are not part of the industry in America are likely to use the word movie although both describe motion pictures.
