What is Telefilm?

As a newbie in the film industry, some of the most challenging factors about entering the industry seem to be understanding the various terminology and lingo that can be used on the set, and off. New and aspiring filmmakers must quickly adapt and learn. To make sense of the various terms used in filmmaking a television production. Or else they risk struggling to understand what everything means. More importantly, how they can communicate effectively in the field. Terms like “Telefilm” and “Telecast” are frequently used in filmmaking. But what is telefilm? And what does it mean?

What is Telefilm?

The term telefilm represents a motion picture filmed specifically for broadcast on television. While many films are produced with the intent of showing them in a theater.

Or, in modern times, to be exclusively shown on Netflix or Hulu. Films that are produced with the sole intent of being broadcast on television are called Telefilms.

Sometimes called a “made for TV movie”. A telefilm is typically a two-hour story. Which is created to be shown on television and thus. It may have different features. Or it may be produced slightly differently than what you might expect from a Hollywood hit. 

How are Telefilms Different from Box Office Films?

Telefilms may be slightly different from what you would expect to see in a theater. Production of a TV movie, or TV film is often less expensive and more condensed, and may even be perceived as lower quality.

The films may resemble an episode of dramatic television. But they are actually a full-length. Two hours with commercials. Many telefilms are produced as a means of cashing in on News events. Including scandals and similar situations.

Cliffhangers

Telefilms have several semi-cliffhangers. You might recall them, if you’ve ever watched a telefilm or a television series, and noticed that something incredible is always just about to happen, when it cuts to commercial?

Many telefilms are produced with carefully aligned semi-cliffhangers that happen to coincide with the network-scheduled commercial breaks. These films are also sometimes extended, even just a few minutes, so as to coincide with the network airtime that is available without going over.

Smaller Casts

If you’ve ever noticed the cast of a telefilm, you’ve probably called out the fact that they are generally smaller, and more reserved.

Although some premium cable films will go against this smaller cast model, most utilize a smaller cast shot mostly outdoors, and utilize a notably smaller production budget overall as compared to a feature film that will be aired in theaters.

In Summary

So, what are telefilms? They’re films that are produced for television broadcast and which are created specifically for that purpose.

They tend to be created with a storyline that centers around the rising semi-cliffhangers that keep the audience watching, despite commercials.

They generally are produced on significantly lower budgets which ultimately lead to lower revenue streams after distribution, but nonetheless, they’re an important element of the television audience experience.