What does "blocking" refer to in film?

Blocking refers to the staging of actors in a scene, which is crucial for conveying the narrative and emotions within the film. It involves the precise movement and positioning of the actors in relation to one another and the set, contributing to the visual storytelling. This aspect is meticulously planned during the pre-production stages and is essential for creating visually dynamic and engaging scenes.

Effective blocking can enhance the relationship between characters, establish spatial relationships, and guide the audience’s focus, ultimately shaping the overall composition of the scene. By choreographing how actors move and interact with their surroundings, directors set the tone and can immerse viewers in the story.

Camera angles, while important in the film, are a separate consideration from blocking as they pertain to how the scene is framed and viewed. The editing process is a different phase of filmmaking concerned with assembling the footage, and location selection refers to the choices made about where to film, which do not directly involve the staging of actors.