Director or AD calls this to start camera and begin the take. Everything on set locks in — action follows immediately.
The command "Moteur!" sets the entire set in motion — it's the point of no return between preparation and action. The director or their 1st AD calls it after everyone has confirmed they are ready. With this word, the camera starts, sound rolls, and everyone on set knows: it's about to begin. It's not just a technical signal, but the starting signal for concentrated work.
Practically, it works like this: the AD walks through the set and checks each area — "Camera ready?", "Sound ready?", "Set ready?", "Makeup, wardrobe ready?". Only when everyone gives a thumbs-up does the AD inform the director. The director then calls "Moteur!", whereupon the cinematographer starts the camera and the sound mixer begins recording. This moment requires absolute silence and concentration — no movements outside the frame, no conversations, no noise from production equipment.
The take then typically runs "blind" for five to ten seconds — the camera is filming, sound is rolling, but no action yet. This gives the material headroom for editing and ensures the audio level is stable when the scene truly begins. After this, the command "Action!" follows from the director, and the actors start their performance. Who calls "Moteur!" depends on the director's style: some do it themselves, others leave it to the 1st AD — it's a matter of hierarchy and rhythm on set.
A common beginner's trap: calling "Moteur!" when the camera isn't truly ready yet or someone is still getting into position. This costs time and patience. Professionals confirm their readiness clearly and early. The director, in turn, shouldn't wait too long after "Moteur!" has been called — the tension on set can otherwise dissipate, and actors can lose focus. The best routine is: count down quickly, then immediately "Action!". This creates the natural rhythm that every set needs.