The 180 degree rule in film establishes an axis around which the camera must not cross when filming a scene to avoid showing characters on the same side from opposite angles, which could confuse viewers. The rule sets a single axis so that a character shown on the left side of the frame remains on the left as the camera moves, maintaining spatial relationships for realism and clarity. Breaking the rule involves changing the established axis, risking disorienting effects.

1. The 180 Degree Rule By Priyen Jani

2. About the Rule & Breaking It The 180 Degree Rule is a technique used in films that declares then when a camera begins to film a scene at a given side, it must not take a shot or play the film from an angle or side that is opposite to. When the rule first takes place an axis I set around the rule, and to abide by the rule, you must not switch or change the axis. By altering the axis, this is known as ‘breaking the rule.’

3. Why do we have the rule? We have the rule set out as if the rule was not there and the axis changed, it could show an actor/actress on the left when shooting from the left, and on the left again when shooting on the right. This is not realistic and could confuse the public who are watching the film.