notes on editing in film

1. 1
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:
 To identify or introduce the characters
 To show 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 and the tempo of the cuts,it its slow it can
suggestromance and emotion,if it’s fast it can suggestaction.It
is the most obvious thingto look for as it gives an insight to 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:
Basic tool of the editor, trims the footage down but also helps to
create/maintain the logic of a start middle and end (narrative)
The cut is a change of shot from one viewpoint or location to another
Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred – there is always a
reason.

2. 2
Match on action:
This is where the editor cuts from one shot to another view that
matches the first shots action, cutting on action gives the impression
of continuous time when watching the edited film. By having the
subjectbegin an action in one shot and carry it through to completion
in another, the editorcreates a visual bridge, which distracts the
viewer from noticing the cut or noticing any slight continuity error
between the two shots.
Jump cut:
This is an abrupt switch from one scene to another scene,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 shots cuts away, often to a reaction shot of another
character or piece of action, oftenreinforces a mood of togetherness
or confrontation
Reaction shot
Is any shot which a participant reacts to events/ action. Often used to
guide the audiences reaction to the scene
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 screennormally black
Dissolve
A slow transition as one image merges into another.
Both are used to suggest: differences intimes or place.

3. 3
Wipe
An optical effectin which one shot ‘wipes’ another off the screen for
dramatic effect.
Superimposition
Two or more images placed directly on top of one another
Montage:
A series of shots that are connected togetherto reinforce/create
meaning – intensifies and controls the emotionthrough 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
add dramatic effectto a film.
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 to add 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.