Media Homework – Continuity

What is continuity in film?

Continuity in film is when actor during a film does something for example, either standing or sitting down therefore, you can edit two shots together to make it look more realistic and accurate. An example of a shot that could be used for this is a medium long shot. Continuity typically means it is a transition between one shot to another however, it makes it flow more smoothly as it does not automatically jump from one scene to another so quickly therefore, this keeps the audience more engaged. Also, it shows the shots go together more naturally.

Some types of continuity include:

·         Blooper Continuity (meaning it is physical) portrays that the audience soon notice when objects are missing or being changed within a shot. For example, if the actor is wearing different clothes or different crops.

·         Technical continuity shows unexpected changes within a shot which are also known as, jumps cuts. Furthermore, this typically reflects it is cutting out boring things within scenes such as, driving for a long time.

180* line of action Rule

The 180* line of action rule is a guideline when filming. Within a scene or conversation, the actors must have the same either left or right relationship to each other but, only at a 180* (degree) angle. However, the camera can be changed just for close ups, etc. Although, you cannot film the other side because the set will change and the actors flip sides so that the audience engage into the film more. Also, this rule allows the audience to have a greater sense of location.

Shot – Reverse Shot

This is an editing technique using during a face to face conversation, for example. It reflects the different type of shots that are explored and used such as, off shoulder shot focusing upon one person then flipping on to the other person, to get a close up therefore, it is alternate between each actor whilst they speak.

Match on action/Match cut

Match on action or cutting on action is a film or video editing technique used for continuity editing, in which one shot automatically cuts to another shot reflecting the action in between therefore, it engages the reader more. Cutting on action gives a sense of continuous time when watching the edited film. By using movements such as the actors walking, you can hide things from the audience, mainly objects and other little things that are not valid as much. So, the brain automatically adapts to following the people as there is nothing else exciting around the actors. This further engages the viewers as it may consist of different locations, characters and actors. An example of movement would be using a long shot to show the actors are walking up to a chair then, sitting down. After that, the shot will be changed to a close up of the actor as they sit down therefore, it is unnoticeable due to the fact that, all attention from the audience is payed towards the movement and not the cut, as it catches the viewers eye.