Reading Time: 4 minutesWhat is a film cut? Definition & Meaning A film cut is the most basic editing move—a direct switch from one shot to the next, with no transition effects. It’s the backbone of how stories flow and how emotions build on screen. Every time you watch a movie, does the image just snap to another… Continue reading What is a Film Cut? Definition, Types & Narrative Use
Smash Cut
What is a Smash Cut in Film? Definition, Examples, and Techniques
Reading Time: 2 minutesWhat is a smash cut? Definition & Meaning A smash cut is a sudden, jarring transition between two scenes. It is often used to create a dramatic or comedic effect by highlighting a stark contrast in tone, setting, or emotion. Smash cuts are those abrupt scene changes that catch you off guard. They’re like cinematic… Continue reading What is a Smash Cut in Film? Definition, Examples, and Techniques
What is a Gilligan Cut? Definition, Meaning & Instant Comedy Timing
Reading Time: 2 minutesWhat is a Gilligan cut? Definition & Meaning A Gilligan Cut is a type of smash cut used in comedy where a character says they won’t do something—and the very next shot shows them doing exactly that. It’s the classic setup-then-slam: a confident line, followed by a hard contradiction. You’ve definitely seen this in sitcoms.… Continue reading What is a Gilligan Cut? Definition, Meaning & Instant Comedy Timing