In order to further my investigation into match cutting, I thought I’d do some research and write up a little summary on how they are used in editing. So the basic idea of the match cut is to connect two shots by using an element of each shot that is similar. It is generally used to establish spatial/temporal continuity, although it can also be used as an artistic/stylistic device. It can be used to suggest a relationship between two different objects and to create a visual metaphor.
Looking at a variety of different examples, I’ve grouped the types of cuts into three categories:
1. The graphic cut
This is the most basic form of match cut. Two visually similar objects in the frame are placed one after the other in a way that matches graphically. In this scene from Breaking Bad, the two visuals of the liquid in Walt’s scene and the tea dripping is used as a scene transition instead of a typical cut.
2. The narrative cut
This cut, whilst also visually similar, has a more significant motive than just pure aesthetics. It is used to link two elements of the narrative together and suggest a relationship between them. Below is the famous match cut example from Stanley Kubrick’s A Space Oddyssey (2001). This article summarises the connection between the two shots: “After an ape discovers the use of bones as a tool and a weapon, he throws one triumphantly into the air. As the bone spins in the air, there is a match cut to a much more advanced tool: an orbiting satellite. The match cut helps draw a connection between the two objects as exemplars of primitive and advanced tools respectively, and serves as a neat summary of humanity’s technological advancement up to that point”.
3. The cut on action
This cut is a little different as it is about temporal rather than spacial continuity. The two shots do not match visually next to each other, however they connect a specific moment in which an action is happening. This type of cut is the opposite to the jump cuts that we see so often these days. This is a clip from The Matrix – there is a clear example of a cut on action at 2:44.
Also, as a side note – this short film below is not only an incredible example of using the principle of the match cut, but also just editing in general. It’s the type of filmmaking that makes me simultaneously feel inspired and motivated, but also angry and massively inadequate that someone can create such intricate and beautiful pieces of art. This article has a cool interview where the filmmaker Leonardo Dalessandri describes his approach to editing, and how he linked the clips together to create a sense of flow.
