What Is Filmmaker Mode?
TV manufacturers were showing offFilmmaker ModeatCES 2020.
The original aspect ratio, color profile, and frame rate are preserved.
Soon, though, this feature will be universal on all televisions, regardless of brand or model.
Why Do We Need It?
Modern televisions make heavy use of post-processing effects, like motion smoothing.
Hollywood and much of the filmmaking world use a standard cinematic, 24p frame rate.
This means 24 frames are displayed per second (technically, it’s closer to 23.967).
This filmic frame rate is what gives movies their recognizable “cinematic” appearance.
Not only does this make cinematic productions look too smooth, it often introduces unwanted visual artifacts.
Filmmaker Mode also addresses problems with aspect ratio and correct color output.
While these issues have little to do with motion smoothing, each display manufacturer implements them in different ways.
It could take a series of convoluted menus to adjust color temperature or enforce a particular aspect ratio.
Some manufacturers set aspect ratio and display options on a “per-input” basis.
Filmmaker Mode solves these issues (temporarily, at least) with the flip of one switch.
Why Is Filmmaker Mode a Big Deal?
Filmmaker Mode isn’t a proprietary technology.
Display manufacturers Samsung, LG, Sony, Toshiba, Vizio, and Panasonic, are all members.
This means that, unlike proprietary technologies, Filmmaker Mode will be implemented identically across all devices and manufacturers.
This eliminates any confusing branding or convoluted menus you might otherwise have to navigate to enable this feature.
For example, Sony hasn’t committed to offering Filmmaker Mode on its TVs yet.
How Is Filmmaker Mode Different from Game Mode?
What these modes do is entirely up to the manufacturer.
Some displays don’t have a game mode, but rather, specific inputs designed with low-latency in mind.
While Filmmaker Mode also wages war on motion smoothing, its ultimate goal is not the same.
Its primary function is preserving the image, rather than eliminating latency.
Related:What Does “Game Mode” On My TV Or Monitor Mean?
How Do I Buy a TV with Filmmaker Mode?
At this writing, there aren’t any TVs on the market that use Filmmaker Mode.
Panasonic likewise stated its upcoming 2020 OLED HD 2000 series would include support.
Will My Old TV Get Filmmaker Mode as Part of an Update?
At present, it’s unlikely older displays will be updated to include support for Filmmaker Mode.
No manufacturers have confirmed whether the feature can even be added via a firmware update.
If you want the best TV for gaming, Filmmaker Mode probably isn’t your top priority.
Here’swhat you should look for in a gaming display.
