Term

Splinter unit

A small temporary unit split from the principal company to capture limited material concurrently or nearby.

Also known as: splinter crew

Reviewed September 3, 2026

In practice

It is typically narrower than a full second unit and should have an explicit director, safety structure, communication path, equipment allocation, and reporting plan.

Explore related entries

First unit
Second unit
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Related entries

First unit
Second unit
Insert unit

Sources

2023 Basic Agreement — Directors Guild of America
E-learning glossary — ScreenSkills