Direct-to-video (also known as direct-to-DVD, direct-to-iTunes, direct-to-VHS, direct-to-digital, made-for-video, straight-to-video, shot-on-video and straight-to-DVD) is the release of a film to the public on home video formats (historically VHS) without being released in theaters or broadcast on television. Because sufficiently inferior sequels, prequels, or midquels of larger-budget films may be released direct-to-video, references to direct-to-video releases are often pejorative. Still, direct-to-video releases have become something of a lifeline for independent filmmakers and smaller companies.
Read more about Direct-to-video: Reasons For Releasing Direct-to-video, Direct-to-video Films Screened Theatrically, "DVD Premiere", Direct-to-iTunes, The V-Cinema and OVA Markets in Japan