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Editing
Most films use a systemof editing known as continuity editing. Its sole aim is to get the story moving along
and get the audience completely immersed in the plot and characters.
In drama sequences, the purpose of editing is often:
Identification (with characters)
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 especially aware to spot the techniques of editing employed
during a textual analysis. Remember also that sometimes sound 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 often works through the juxtaposition of different shots to create meaning.
Editing Pace:
This is the speed and tempo of the cuts- slow can suggest emotion and fast can suggest tension, action or
uncontrollable events.
This is the first most obvious thing to look for as it gives an insight into the tempo and feel of the sequence.
The cut:
There are a huge number of editing techniques which filmmakers can employ. The most common of 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 a start, middle and end (narrative)
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 shots action, cutting on action
gives the impression of a continuous time when watching the edited film. By having a subject begin an action
in one shot and carry it through to completion in the next, the editor creates a visual bridge, which distracts
the viewer from noticing the cut or noticing any slight continuity error between the two shots.
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.
2. 2
Cutaway:
This is when the shot ‘cuts away’ too often a ‘reaction shot’ of another character or piece of action, often
reinforces a mood of togetherness or confrontation.
Reaction shot:
This is any shot which a participant reacts to events/action. Often used to guide the audiences reaction to a
scene.
Matched Cut or Graphic Cut:
Is a cut between either two different objects, two different spaces, or two different compositions in which an
object in the two shots graphically match, often helping to establish strong relationship between two scenes.
Other forms of transition are also possible:
Fade
A transition to or from a blank screen (normally black)
Dissolve
A slow transition as one image merges into another.
(Both are used to suggest differences in time or place. A dissolve might also suggest a strong connection
between the two scenes)
Wipe
An optical effect in which one shot ‘wipes’ another off the screen for dramatic effect.
Superimposition
Two or more images placed directly on top of one another.
Split screen
Division of screen in order to show two or more lines of action simultaneously – this can be referred to as
parallel action.
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 effect to the film.
Montage:
A series of shots that are connected together to reinforce/create meaning- intensifies and controls the
emotion through collection.
Long take:
This is a shot that does not cut away but ‘lingers’ on one piece of the action. It is the equivalent of staring-
connotes intensity.
