What is Cross Cutting in Film Editing?
Many different film editing techniques are used in the post-production process. To establish the desired outcome in terms of visual tone and style. As well as pace and composition. Cross-cutting is one of several techniques that may come up in the film editing process during post. But what is cross cutting in film editing? And what does it mean?
What is Cross Cutting in Film Editing?
Cross cutting is a technique that film editors use to cut separate actions, taking place in separate locations, so as to show them together as an illustration of exactly what’s occurring at that moment in the narrative across a multitude of scenarios which are playing out within the story.
You might recall this type of editing most closely from heist movies or similar action style films.
There are no set rules to how cross cutting in film editing must work aside from the fact that this editing technique is used to show different actions taking place at the same time across various points or locations either near, or far.
Most of the time, cross-cutting techniques are used to help the audience see large scale events unfolding across various locales simultaneously.
Characteristics of Cross Cutting in Film Editing
Cross cutting can vary greatly depending on how it is used and the style of the film or the narrative. Editors will employ this method to show actions that are taking place in separate rooms.
Or they could show scenes unfolding in separate areas of the world. There really is no rule as to how close, or far away, the situations could be unfolding.
Cross cutting characteristically can be used to create a narrative parallel. That will compare and contrast situations unfolding simultaneously within the story.
When a narrative parallel to compare and contrast is produced through cross cutting the correct reference is parallel editing. Which is a type of cross cutting.
Parallel Editing a Type of Cross Cutting
As we further go into answering the question, “What is cross cutting in film editing?” it’s important to address a particular type of cross cutting known as parallel editing.
As mentioned above, parallel editing is a specific type of cross cutting in film. Which involves the use of two scenes that are unfolding, at the same time. Across different locations but which could combine to create a narrative parallel.
In this sense, the viewer will compare and contrast what’s occurring. And how similar, or different the two scenes are.
In Summary
As you can see, cross cutting in film editing is an incredible feature. That can be used for a variety of purposes. And is common in action films and a variety of other forms of filmmaking.
It can build up anticipation, drive momentum, and create intensity amid the situation for an amazing presentation.