What does OS (Of-Screen) mean?
OS (Off-Screen) refers to dialogue or sounds that are heard but not seen during a scene in a film or TV show. OS typically indicates that a character is speaking or making noise off-camera, adding to the scene’s atmosphere or narrative without showing the character on screen. This technique is used to maintain focus on the on-screen action while still incorporating important audio elements. OS is commonly used in phone conversations, background noises, or when a character is present but not shown.
Example:A character’s voice is heard OS (off-screen) during a phone call scene, where only one side of the conversation is shown on camera.
Example: In a suspense movie, footsteps are heard OS, building tension as the unseen character approaches the protagonist.
Did You Know?
The term “off-screen” is often abbreviated as “OS” in screenplays and production notes to indicate dialogue or sound effects that are not visible on camera!
You can also find “OS (Of-Screen)” and related terms in this category: Filming and Production.
