Editing

Continuity editing

The standard system of editing. The aim is for the editing to be

"invisible“, so the viewer is never distracted by awkward

jumps between shots or by any confusion about the spatial lay-

out of the scene.

Parallel editing

An editing technique that shows two or more simultaneous sets of action unfolding. The scenes do not have to be happening simultaneously, just linked by theme (as in ‘The

Godfather Part II’).

Cross cut

Very similar to parallel editing. An editing technique that shows

two or more sets of action actually happening at the same

time.

Matched cut

When a director cuts to a new scene, but shows a link between

the two by ‘matching’ the position or shape of something

in each shot.

Shot/ reverse shot

A way of tracking dialogue by showing each speaking in turn.

Usually a medium close- up, with the listener’s shoulder in

view.

Eyeline match

The camera follows the eyeline trajectory of a character, allowing

the viewer to see who or what they were looking at.

(In a shot/reverse shot, this process is then repeated.)

Fade

(In or out.) Ronseal- esque in its simplicity.

Slow motion

Again, this one’s pretty straightforward.