in the can
1
(of a movie or video) completed and ready to be released
The idiom "in the can" has its origins in the early days of film-making, when movies were recorded on actual film reels. After a scene was successfully filmed, the film reel containing the footage was placed in a can or film canister for storage and later processing. Over time, the phrase has been adapted to indicate that a task or project is finished or that something is completed and ready for use.
- With all the paperwork signed and the details finalized, the project is now officially in the can.
- After months of recording and mixing, the band's new album is finally in the can and ready for release.
- The movie's principal photography wrapped up, and the director was relieved to announce that the film was in the can.
- The author celebrated with a glass of champagne when the last page of the novel went "in the can."
- The marketing team worked tirelessly to ensure the ad campaign was in the can before the product launch.