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Film Language:Editing
Most films use a system of editing known as Continuity editing. Its
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:
This is the speed of the cuts- slow can suggestemotionand fast can
suggesttension, action or uncontrollable events.
This is the first mostobvious thing to look for as it gives an insight
into the tempo and feelof 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 the most basic tool of the editor. Editing trims the footage
down but also helps to create/maintain the logic of the start middle
and end.
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Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred – there is always a
reason.
Match on action: Is where the editor cuts from one shot to another
view that matches the first view.
Jump cut: An abrupt switch from one scene to another, used to
make a dramatic point, or mark a period of time passing.
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’ to oftena reaction shot of
another character of piece of action often reinforces a mood of
togetherness of confrontation.
Reaction shot is any shot in which a participant reacts to
events/action. Often used to guide the audience’s reaction to a
scene.
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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 screen
Dissolve
A slow transition as one image merges into another.
Both are used to suggestdifferencesin time or place.
Wipe An optical effectin which one shot ‘wipes’ another off the
screenfor dramatic effect.
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Superimposition two or more images directly placed on top of each
other.
Montage:a series of shots that are connected togetherto
reinforce/create meaning- intensifies and controls the emotion
through collection.
Slow-motion:The action literally slows down with the text- this
connotes seriousness or a past event. Helps to prolong tension, add
style, or dramatic effectof the film.
Long take: This is a shot that does not cut away but ‘lingers’ on one
piece of the action piece of the action. It is the equivalent of 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.
