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Film Language:Editing
Most films use a system of editing known as Continuity editing. It’s
sole aim is to get the story moving along and get the audience
completelyimmersed inthe plot and characters.
In drama sequences,the purpose of editing is often:
identification
conflict
intensification
The function of this system is to make the drama as fluid as possible,
so that the audience are not aware of the construction process
therefore,you need to be especiallyaware to spotthe techniques of
editing employed during a textual analysis. Rememberalso that
sometimessound is used to ‘bridge’the cut and make it less
noticeable on screen.
The process of editing is more concerned with the ‘creation’ of
meaning rather than the taking away of material.
Editing Pace:
The speed and tempo of the cut- slow can suggestemotionand fast
can suggesttension, action or an uncontrollable event. This is the
first most obvious thing to look for as it gives an insight into the tempo
and feel of the sequence
Editing often works through the juxtaposition of differentshots to
create meaning.
There are a huge number of editing techniques which filmmakers can
employ.
The most commonof these is the cut.
The cut is a: standard cut from one scene to another
Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred – there is always a
reason.
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Match on action: is where the ditor cuts from one shot to
another viewthat matches the first shots action
Jump cut:
An abruptswitch from one scene to another.Usually to show a
dramatic change in time
Cross-cut
A cut from one narrative or line of action to another. Mostly used in
films to establish action occurring at the same time in two different
locations.
Cutaway
This is when the shot cuts away too often a reaction shotof
another characterof acting.Often reinforces a mood of
togethernessor confrontation
Reaction shot
Any shot in which a participant reactsto events or action
Matched Cutor Graphic Cut
Is a cut between either two differentobjects,two differentspaces,or
two differentcompositions in which an objectin the two shots
graphically match, oftenhelping to establish strong relationship
between two scenes.
Other forms of transition are also possible:
Fade
A transition to or from a blank scdeenthat is usually black
Dissolve
A slow transition as one image merges into another.
Both are used to suggest:
Wipe
An optical effectin which one shot ‘wipes’ another off the screen for
dramatic effect.
Superimposition
When two or more images are placed on top of each other
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Montage:
A series of shots that are connected together to creatorre
inforce meaning-intensifies and controlsthe emotion through
collection.
Slow-motion:
The action literally slows down with the text this connotes
seriousnessor a pastevent.Helps to prolong tension,add style
or dramatic effectto the film
Long take:
This is a shot that does not out away but ‘lingers’on piece of the
actin. It is the equivalentof staring-connotes intensity
Split screen
Division of screen in order to show two or more lines of action
simultaneously – this can be referred to as parallelaction.
Effects are also added as part of the editing process – eg; slow
motion or fast motion.
