What is text in a film called?

Okay, so you’re wondering what that text is called when it pops up in a movie, right? I always wondered that too!

Well, generally, it’s called an intertitle or a title card. Basically, it’s just text that’s inserted between scenes. Think of it like a little message popping up on screen. They’re filmed separately and then edited into the movie itself.

I remember seeing them a lot in old silent films. You know, before they had synchronized sound? They’d use these intertitles to show dialogue or explain what was happening. Like, maybe the text would say, “Meanwhile, back at the ranch…” You get the idea!

I guess even nowadays you might see them sometimes, though not as often. Maybe to show a change in location or a big jump in time. They’re kind of a neat way to add information without breaking the flow of the visuals, if you ask me. What do you think?