Following are definitions for key terms in regard to the delivery of video masters and associated language text files:
- Pseudo-textless file: video masters in which there is no burned-in subtitle text but text for the main title, opening/end credits and forced narrative remains. As the standard, all video masters should be delivered in pseudo-textless format. An Account Manager will advise if another format such as textless is required (extremely rare).
- Subtitle file: a plain-text file with hard-to-understand dialogue or dialogue translated from the original version into the language of the viewer. Subtitle files include stop and start times next to the subtitle text to ensure they’ll be displayed at exactly the right moment.
- Closed-caption file: a plain-text file with dialog provided for the deaf and hard of hearing. Closed-captioned files also include stop and start times next to the text.
- Forced narrative file: clarifying text overlays for an additional language (e.g., a few lines spoken in a German or French film with English subtitles), texted graphics (e.g., the year the scene takes place), locations (e.g., street signs) or character identities (e.g., documentary interviewees) that are not included in the sub or dub and would therefore not otherwise be understandable.
Textless video : “clean” video masters from which all text has been removed. Textless files have no main titles, opening/end credits, forced narrative (see below) or subtitles permanently “burned into” (embedded in) the image.
Any questions about policies and procedures – as well as special requests - should be addressed to the Account Management team at teamwhite@premieredigital.net and teamblue@premieredigital.net.