The telefilm is a branch of the audio-visual production particularly intended for a televised diffusion . Produced by the studios of television and not by the studios of Cinema, the telefilm has one duration higher than a hour. He tells a history supplements and suffices himself for itself, in opposition to the Télésuite or with the Televised series, which are diffused in several parts or episodes.

The telefilms are generally turned in Vidéo -   from now on numérique  - although certain telefilms were turned on traditional photosensitive film. The format of diffusion is most generally that of the televised screen, namely the 1,33:1 (which correspond to screens 4/3) and the 16/9.

For certain telefilms, were implemented colossal means, as well financial as material, they are true spectaculars, often coproduites by several countries. One cannot thus always regard the telefilms as secondary works, with regard to the means.

Telefilm and cinema

Although that remains exceptional, certain telefilms are exploited in rooms following the success caused by their initial diffusion on small screen:

• 1971: Duel , of Steven Spielberg, on ABC
• 2005: Black night October 17th, 1961 , of Alain Tasma, on Canal+

Others, like Elephant , are produced by television channels for television, but leave finally initially in room.

Nds-nl: Tillevisiefilm