Digital Cinema Package (DCP) is a key element in modern film projection that brings cinematic content to large screens in digital format. DCP is a standardized data package containing not only technical parameters but also content information. Let’s take a closer look at the key components of DCP and its decoding.
A string such as
CINEMA3_FTR_2D_F_FR-XX_FR_51_4K_SPE_20230714_DELL_VF
may seem incomprehensible at first glance. However, each part has its own meaning:
- Content Type: In this line it is FTR, which stands for movie.
- Content Characteristics: 2D, F, FR-XX_FR, 51, 4K, SPE. These are details about the movie format, projection, language, and other technical details.
- Creation Date: 20130714 represents the creation date of the DCP.
- Lab: DELL stands for the company that packaged the DCP, in this case Dellert Films.
- Standard: VF refers to a variant file that contains partial information such as subtitles or additional languages.
Content Types in DCP
DCP contains a variety of content types such as:
- FTR: movie;
- TLR: trailer;
- RTG: rating feature;
- POL: strategic trailer;
- TSR: teaser;
- PSA: public service announcement;
- ADV: commercial advertisement;
- SHR: short film;
- XSN: transit commercial;
- TST: test spot;
- PRO: promotional video.
Content Characteristics
Important technical details include:
- 2D/3D: movie format;
- F/Scope/C: frame projection format;
- 51/61/71: number of audio channels;
- 4fl: brightness;
- 48: number of frames per second.
Language and Subtitles
The characters after the hyphen indicate the language of the audio track and subtitles. For example, FR-XX_FR means French and no subtitles.
Territory and Rating
The first two or three letters are the territory, followed by the age rating of the movie. For example, FR-XX_FR_51_4K_SPE_20130714_DUK_VF means the movie is intended for French audiences and is age-rated accordingly.
Audio Characteristics
51/61/71 indicate the number of audio channels, and HI/VI denote audio tracks for the hearing and visually impaired.
Conclusion
DCP is not only a digital format for film projection, but also a description of the technical and content aspects of a movie. By deciphering the cryptic symbols in the name of DCP, we gain a deep understanding of its characteristics, allowing theaters to create a unique cinematic experience for audiences. If you need a company that deals with DCP mastering, then contact our friends at Dellert Films.