|This article does not cite any references or sources. (December 2007)|
In the post-production process of film editing and video editing, a cut is an abrupt, but usually trivial film transition from one sequence to another. It is
|This article does not cite any references or sources. (December 2007)|
In the post-production process of film editing and video editing, a cut is an abrupt, but usually trivial film transition from one sequence to another. It is synonymous with the term edit, though "edit" can imply any number of transitions or effects. The cut, dissolve and wipe serve as the three primary transitions. The term refers to the physical action of cutting film or videotape, but also refers to a similar edit performed in software; it has also become associated with the resulting visual "break".
Due to the short length of early film stock, splicing was necessary to join together segments into long-form. Actuality directors spliced together reels prior to shooting in order to record for longer periods of time. Narrative directors, on the other hand, preferred shooting for shorter lengths, editing together shot footage. In either case, film was cut (and subsequently joining the cut segments) in order to remove excess footage, focusing attention on significant elements.
The cut has retained its purpose to this day, with alternative uses arising to achieve special effects.
To signal the end of media capture, this command is issued primarily by the director, to cast and crew. (It is bad form for others to yell "Cut!" without an exceptional reason; mistakes are reshot during the same take, if possible.) In contrast, a "Roll (media)!" command signals the beginning of shooting.
In between these commands and the actual footage to be captured, various marking elements (the slate), preparatory actions (extras, effects, or other costly elements), and the director's "Action!" command 