05. editing notes sheet
- 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 completely immersed in the 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 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 Pace: This is the speed and the 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: Editing often works through the juxtaposition of different shots to create meaning. 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). The cut is a change from one viewpoint or location to another. Always ask yourself why a cut has occurred – there is always a reason. Match on action: 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 a subject begin an action in next shot and carry it through to completion in the next, the editor creates a visual bridge, which distracts the viewer from noticing cut or noticing any slight continuity error between two shots. Jump cut: An abruct switch from one scene to another scene, used to make dramatic point or mark a period of 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 often to a reaction shot of another character or action. This reinforces a mood of togetherness or confrontation. Reaction shot: 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. Fade: A transition to or from blank screen (normally back) 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 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. Montage: A series of shots that are connected together to 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 effect to the film. Long take: This is a shot that doesn’t not cut away but ‘lingers’ on one 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 parallel action. Effects are also added as part of the editing process – e.g.; slow motion or fast motion.