I missed this week’s screening however the set chapter for this week focused on the concept of editing and how this enhances a film. I often find myself wondering how it was possible to edit a film before computers and modern cinematic technology were invented. Upon reading this chapter, a few of my questions were answered. Prior to the 90’s, in order for a cut to be made (immediate joining of two shots together), someone would have to physically ‘cut’ the film role in the desired position and tape it back together, which I guess is where the term ‘cut’ really comes from.

This chapter also states that there are 4 main dimensions in film editing. They are Graphic, Rhythmic, Spatial and Temporal. A Graphic relation between two shots refers to when the two shots are seemingly disconnected but relate to each other either in composition elements such as lighting, sound, colour etc. Rhythmic usually refers to when shots follow a pattern of sorts, most likely in relation to the musical score of a film. Spatial relations are key in establishing place or setting. This is often done via extreme long shot/long shot followed by a series of close up/ medium shots. Finally, Temporal relation seeks to display different angles and views of the same scene without disrupting the time sequence. I’ll be keeping these elements in mind as I attend the screenings from now on to observe how they aid the narrative of the film.

Elle Sablotny