1. AS Media: Editing
AS Media
Film Language: Editing
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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
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 is a sudden change of shot from one viewpoint or location to
another. Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred – there is
always a reason.
There are a huge number of editing techniques which filmmakers can
employ.
The most common of these is the cut.

2. AS Media: Editing
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The cut is a: The cut is a sudden change of shot from one viewpoint
or location to another. Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred –
there is always a reason.
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 shot's action, cutting on action gives the
impression of 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.
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.
Jump cut
An abrupt switch from one scene to another, used to make a dramatic
point.
Cutaway
A ‘bridging’ shot between two shots of the same subject, often used
to soften uncomfortable jumps in time or space.
Reaction shot
Any shot in which a participant reacts to events/action. Often used to
guide the audience’s 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.

3. AS Media: Editing
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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 involved.
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.
Effects are also added as part of the editing process – eg; slow
motion or fast motion.
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.