What Does Checking the Gate Mean?

Located at the front of a camera is a rectangular opening where the film is exposed to light, and this is called the film gate. In traditional filmmaking, checking the gate means to check the film gate for any scratches, dust or other debris that could ruin the take.

As the film passes through the gate, any debris that occurs as a result of small slivers of film being shaved off the edge and sticking in the side of the opening is referred to as “hairs.” A hair that gets stuck in the gate often requires another take because it creates a visible dark line that can ruin the shot. Other factors that may cause a hair in the gate include humidity, camera position, and type of film stock.

Typically called by the 1st AD, “checking the gate” is the responsibility of the 1st AC. If the gate is clean, the 1st AC will respond with “The gate is good,” and the crew can begin setting up the next shot. If the gate is not clean, it can be cleaned with orangewood sticks and canned air.

Although movies are not really shot on film anymore in modern filmmaking, the phrase “check the gate” is still used on set to mean “check the card” and make sure that a take recorded properly.

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