direct-to-DVD
Bypassed theater release
Direct-to-DVD describes films released for home viewing without a theatrical run.
The label often signals lower budget or quality—sequels, spinoffs, or productions that studios don't expect to succeed in theaters: The franchise spawned three direct-to-DVD sequels.
The term now extends to streaming releases, though "direct-to-streaming" is gaining ground.
Costing relatively little
- B-movieLow-budget, low-quality film
- cheapLow in price
- schlockLow-quality merchandise
- sequelContinuation of prior work
knockoff · mockbuster · rushed · inferior · forgettable · disposable · mediocre · underwhelming
Paid temporary use
- streamingReal-time digital delivery
- VODViewer-selected playback system
- RedboxAutomated DVD rental kiosk
- WalmartLargest global retailer
dollar-store · retail · release · bypass · distribution · catalog
Knife-wielding horror villain
low-budget
Costing relatively little
sequel · knockoff · mockbuster · rushed · inferior · forgettable · disposable · mediocre · underwhelming · flop
rental
Paid temporary use
- streamingReal-time digital delivery
- VODViewer-selected playback system
- RedboxAutomated DVD rental kiosk
Walmart · dollar-store · retail · release · bypass · distribution · catalog
slasher
Knife-wielding horror villain
production
Making or generating something
- studioCreative professional's workspace
- rightsJustified claims to freedoms
- licensingGranting official permission
ancillary · residuals · SAG · union · contract · premiere · format · collector · commentary
direct-to-DVDtheatrical release
Film shown in theaters
wide release · cinema release · blockbuster · tentpole film · red carpet premiere
direct, directly, direction, directional, director, directors, directorate, directive, directives