SMPTE Universal Leader

Background

During the mid-1960s, the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) introduced a new design known as the SMPTE Universal Leader. This replacement took over from the previous Academy Leader. The SMPTE Universal Leader was intended for use in both television and cinema projection scenarios, although its adoption in theatrical settings was limited.

Leader (1965-)

Title card
16 sound start
35 sound start
"PICTURE START"
Countdown (5)
Control frames (4)
2-pop

Visuals: The leader starts with a title card reading:

SMPTE
UNIVERSAL
LEADER

Afterwards, the indications "16 SOUND START" and "35 SOUND START" were shown within a circular target shape. Subsequently, the phrase "PICTURE START" appears over a light-gray background, marking the commencement of the countdown sequence. The countdown sequence (set in Futura) includes an ongoing timer that counts down from 8 to 2 seconds. The countdown is displayed at the center of a target with two white circles, accompanied by a rotating animation resembling a clock arm. During the four-count phase, the letters "C C F F" emerge around the countdown, symbolizing the frames utilized as "control frames".

Trivia:

Work on this leader's design began as early as 1959.
One noteworthy aspect was that the numbers were oriented correctly when projected onto a screen, unlike the Academy countdown numbers that would be upside down.

Variants: Production/editing companies and/or studios would often have custom versions of this leader.

Technique: Cel animation.

Audio: Sometimes, at the 2-second mark of the countdown, a brief beep known as the "2-pop" would sound.

Availability: Seen on many 16mm films and commercials, although they were rarely used in theatrical films.

Legacy: One of the most famous film leaders of all time. It has also been parodied numerous times.