ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) is the process of re-recording dialogue in a controlled studio environment to replace audio that was poorly captured during the original shoot.
ADR — also known as "looping" — involves bringing talent into a recording studio to re-perform their dialogue while watching their original on-screen performance. The actor watches the scene on a screen, listens to the original audio through headphones for timing reference, and records new audio that matches their lip movements. The new recording replaces the problematic location audio in the final mix.
ADR becomes necessary when on-location audio is compromised by environmental noise (traffic, wind, construction), equipment issues (microphone failures, interference), or when dialogue needs to be changed after filming. It is also used to add off-screen narration, internal monologue, or additional dialogue that was not in the original script. In feature films, a significant percentage of dialogue may be replaced through ADR.
While ADR produces cleaner audio, achieving a natural result requires skill. The recording studio environment sounds different from the original location, so sound engineers must add room tone and environmental ambience to make the ADR blend seamlessly with any remaining location audio. The actor must also match their original performance in timing, emotion, and energy. Poorly executed ADR is noticeable and breaks immersion, while well-done ADR is completely invisible to the audience.
Audio mixing is the process of balancing and blending multiple audio tracks — dialogue, music, sound effects, and ambience — into a cohesive, well-proportioned final soundtrack.
Foley is the art of creating and recording custom sound effects in sync with on-screen action, such as footsteps, clothing rustles, door handles, and object interactions.
Sound design is the creative process of crafting, sourcing, and arranging audio elements — including sound effects, ambient sounds, and processed audio — to enhance the emotional and narrative impact of a video.