Editing Terminology and Analysis

What does editing do?

Editing is essential in creating a continuous, flowing sequence. It puts together many video clips to form a video. Shots can be trimmed and transitions can be added to give a smooth finish to the clip. Music, sound effects, voiceovers, lighting, titles and many other effects can be sourced from editing programmes such as Final Cut to make a video effective in keeping the audience's attention.

How does it work?

Editing software programmes put together video footages into one long clip. Each shot is then trimmed to the required duration, constructed in a specific order and then transitions, sound and titles are added to complete the sequence.

Describe and explain the function of each of the following editing terms:

Cut: A shot continues on from another shot. It is used when the aim is for the movie to continue the scene, dialogue and actions.

Dissolve: This is a gradual transition from one shot to another. They overlap and at one point, both shots are visible/merged on screen. It adds smoother continuity than a cut.

Fade: This is a very frequently used shot in filming. The shot can fade (disappear slowly) either into darkness (black screen) or into a white screen. Fade is often used to signify beginning/opening or the ending of a scene or to imply the passing of time. It is a common convention of films.

Jump cut: A constant switch between shots. They are extremely fast and are used to increase the pace of the sequence. Jump cuts are often used in action films where two people are fighting or a car chase is taking place. The abrupt cuts between shots add a tense, chaotic atmosphere and grip the audience's attention.

How does the shot reverse shot help the narrative or generate meaning?

The shot reverse shot can easily be merged with a point of view shot, as they are often used between conversations between two people and so the audience feel like they are both characters in the conversation as they see the other speak back. It helps to create a free flowing conversation and guide the narrative as the audience don't get confused.

Why is the 180 degree rule important?

It is important as if broken, it can confuse the audience easily. It stops the flowing continuity of a sequence and the orientation and setting of a scene can become confusing.

How and why is the point of view shot used?

The POV shot is used by insinuating that the camera lens is the person viewing point. It is used to convey what the character can see and also hear. It makes the audience feel involved in the film and can be very effective in guiding the narrative.

How else can the pov be generated?

The POV shot can be generated in conjunction with other shot types such as over the shoulder, high and low angle. Hand held camera's can also be used to give the point of view effect; this adds shakiness which can be effective in adding tension to the atmosphere of the footage.

What is parallel or cross cut editing?

A filming method where a point of view shot of two different people at different views/angles/places are continuously switching. It is often used in car chases for example, to show the tension and struggle between two oppositions.

What editing techniques are used to generate suspense?

Straight cuts and jump cuts are two types of editing techniques that can be used to generate suspense. They add an abrupt, 'rough' sequence in a scene or chapter of a film which grab the audience's attention.

Explain in your own words how the mouse sequence creates tension

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Why is timing important in editing?

Timing is important in editing as it instructs the flow of a scene. Pauses make the sequence look unprofessional and timing that has been increased can confused the audience. 

Explain in your own words what the continuity system is?

This is an effect that many editors try to achieve by directing the audience through the shots subconsciously through transitions or cuts. It aims to generate a natural flow through the film by using shots that the audience are used to. Many rules and conventions are often used too such as the 180 degree rule and the appearance of an establishing shot at the beginning of a new location or scene. They are shots that the audience expect and are used to which make them enjoy and understand the sequence more.

Why does editing strive to be invisible?

To create a natural flow between shots where the audience are kept attentive, involved and intrigued. The directors are trying to mask the fact it is film and convert it into something that is really happening; the audience are really there.