7.4 Contemporary approaches to editing and rhythm in film

Film editing has evolved dramatically in recent years. From MTV-inspired rapid cuts to long-take cinematography, editors now have a vast toolkit to shape narratives. This evolution reflects changing audience tastes and technological advancements.

Modern editing manipulates rhythm and pacing to evoke emotions and enhance storytelling. Digital tools have revolutionized the process, enabling real-time collaboration and opening doors to new techniques like seamless VFX integration and AI-assisted editing.

Evolution of Editing in Contemporary Cinema

Evolution of editing techniques

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• Classical continuity editing transitioned to experimental approaches emphasizing intensified continuity and post-continuity editing
• Music videos and commercials influenced film editing with faster cutting rates and increased montage sequences
• MTV-style editing emerged featuring rapid cuts, jump cuts, and nonlinear storytelling (music videos)
• Long-take cinematography countered fast-paced editing (Birdman, 1917)
• CGI and visual effects integrated into editing process
• Multi-screen and split-screen techniques adopted for visual complexity

Non-linear editing for storytelling

• Non-linear editing manipulates narrative chronology and structure
• Techniques include flashbacks, flash-forwards, parallel storylines, and fragmented timelines
• Increases cognitive demand and enhances replay value for audiences
• Films like Memento and Pulp Fiction exemplify non-linear storytelling
• Creates disorientation and suspense while enhancing emotional resonance through juxtaposition

Rhythm and Technology in Modern Film Editing

Editing for rhythm and style

• Shot length influences pacing measured by Average Shot Length (ASL)
• Editing patterns create emotional impact:
  1. Accelerating rhythm builds tension
  2. Decelerating rhythm encourages reflection
• Action and movement matched across cuts for visual flow
• Sound design complements editing with bridges and rhythmic synchronization
• Stylistic choices include montage sequences, cross-cutting, and match cuts
• Genre conventions shaped by editing (fast-paced action blockbusters, slow-paced art house films)

Digital technology's impact on editing

• Physical film cutting replaced by digital non-linear editing systems offering flexibility and speed
• Real-time editing streamlines production workflows
• Cloud-based editing enables collaborative post-production
• Digital intermediates enhance color grading and VFX integration
• New techniques emerge: seamless compositing, motion tracking, time remapping
• High Frame Rate (HFR) and 3D technologies influence editing decisions
• AI and machine learning assist in shot selection and continuity management
• Emerging formats (VR, 360-degree video) present new editing challenges and opportunities