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What Is a Smash Cut in Movies? Definition & Examples

Here's the thing about editing films: we spend so much time and effort, so much time being meticulous and precise, so careful and intentional, to...what? To ensure the work that took us weeks, months, even years to complete is completely invisible to our audience.But sometimes... you want your edits to be seen.The smash cut will definitely be seen.Let's dig into how you can use this technique to take your storytelling to the next level.What Is a Smash Cut?To put it simply, smash cuts are just abrupt cuts from one scene to another, characterized by drastic changes in mood, pacing, or visuals. Smash cuts are great when you want to depict contrast. When editors use this technique, they're deliberately creating a striking juxtaposition between scenes. The Gilligan Cut Smash cuts also came to be known as the “Gilligan cut,” after the show Gilligan’s Island brilliantly used smash cuts as a consistent treatment for its titular character Gilligan. In the show this editing technique typically featured a character making a strong declaration about what they will not do, immediately followed by a cut showing them doing exactly that. Often used for comedic effect, Gilligan cuts create humor through the unexpected juxtaposition of dialogue and action. Additionally, it can also serve dramatic purposes, emphasizing irony or highlighting character flaws. Used across genres, from comedies to dramas, Gilligan cuts effectively manipulate the audience's expectations. Because they are abrupt, they can provide a jarring yet impactful transition that resonates with viewers. Smash Cut vs. Jump...

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Published By: NoFilmSchool - Today

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