Lecture Notes on Film Editing Techniques
Introduction to Basic Cuts
- Cut: The most basic edit; simply transitioning from one shot to another.
- Purpose: Changes perspective and advances the story.
Types of Cuts
Cutting on Action
- Definition: Transitioning from one shot to another while the subject is still in motion.
- Examples: Punch, kick, turning, throwing, or walking through a door.
Cutaway
- Definition: Cutting to an insert shot of something else, then back.
- Purpose: Could exist in the same space as characters, or get inside a character’s head.
Crosscutting
- Definition: Intercutting between locations (e.g., phone conversations).
- Effect: Increases tension and suspense.
- Usage: Shows what's going on inside a character's head.
Jump Cuts
- Definition: Cuts between the same shot, often used to show the passing of time.
- Examples: Common in montages; adds urgency.
Match Cuts
- Definition: Cuts from one shot to a similar shot by matching action or composition.
- Usage: Often for scene transitions, mistakenly referred to as jump cuts.
- Types: Includes verbal match cuts.
Transitions
Fade In/Out
- Definition: Dissolving to or from black.
- Common Usage: Used in montages to represent passing time.
Dissolve
- Definition: Blends one shot into another.
Smash Cut
- Definition: Abrupt transitions; e.g., from intense to quiet or vice versa.
- Examples: Waking up from a nightmare.
Iris
- Definition: Transitions with manual camera iris opening/closing.
- Usage: As a stylistic choice.
Wipe
- Definition: Moving one shot off the screen as another moves on.
- Examples: Various types of wipes available.
Invisible Cut
- Definition: Creates the illusion of a single take with hidden cuts.
- Techniques: Hidden in darkness, whip pans, or objects crossing the frame.
Audio-Based Transitions
L Cut
- Definition: Audio from current shot carries to the next.
- Usage: Common during dialogue scenes.
J Cut
- Definition: Audio from the next scene starts before the visual transition.
- Effect: Creates seamless transitions guided by audio.
- Usage: For revealing new elements.
Combining Techniques
- Graduate Example: Match cut into a J Cut.
- Mad Max Example: Cutaway jump cut.
- Gladiator: Cross-cutting match cut.
- Green Mile: Match cross-cutting sequence.
- Saving Private Ryan: Morph match transition.
Conclusion
- Practical Use: Determine when and why to use these cuts for storytelling.
- Engagement: Share favorite cuts and work in forums.
- Additional Resources: Editing videos, video essays, and live demos available.
Remember to check out additional video resources and join for live demos on Thursdays for more in-depth understanding.