Reshoot
Additional filming after principal photography ends to fix story problems, improve performances, or add scenes that enhance the final cut.
Definition
Reshoots are filming sessions conducted after principal photography wraps, returning cast and crew to capture new footage. Reshoots address problems discovered in editing, respond to test screening feedback, or add content for revised creative direction.
While sometimes seen negatively, reshoots are a normal part of major productions and often improve final films.
Why It Matters
Reshoots represent a second chance to address issues, but they're expensive and logistically complex. Understanding when reshoots are worth pursuing versus accepting existing footage is a key producer skill.
The stigma around reshoots often exceeds their reality—most successful blockbusters include reshoot material.
Examples in Practice
Test screenings reveal audience confusion about the villain's motivation, leading to two days of reshoots adding clarifying scenes.
A reshoot budget of $8 million—15% of the original production—is approved to enhance the third act action sequence.
Scheduling conflicts prevent the lead actor from participating in reshoots, requiring creative solutions using doubles and existing footage.