Outtakes: meaning, definitions and examples

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outtakes

 

[ ˈaʊtˌteɪks ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

film production

Outtakes are scenes or portions of scenes that are removed from a film or television show during the editing process. They often contain mistakes, bloopers, or alternate takes that differ from the final version of the production.

Synonyms

alternate takes, bloopers, deleted scenes

Examples of usage

  • The DVD included several outtakes that were hilarious.
  • She watched the outtakes to see the actors' funniest moments.
  • The outtakes revealed how much fun they had on set.
  • He enjoyed watching the outtakes more than the actual film.

Etymology

The term 'outtake' originated in the film industry and derives from the combination of 'out,' meaning something that is external or removed, and 'take,' which refers to a single recorded performance of a scene. The concept became prevalent with the rise of film and television in the early 20th century as filmmakers began to capture more footage than ultimately made it into the final cut. Initially, outtakes were simply considered mistakes or scenes that did not meet the quality standards for the final product. However, with the advent of home video technology and the popularity of blooper reels, outtakes became a beloved feature, providing viewers with a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes antics and the human side of filmmaking. Today, outtakes are commonly included in DVD extras and found on streaming platforms, allowing fans to enjoy these candid moments and appreciate the effort that goes into making their favorite films and shows.