Jump Cut

Jump cut 

The jump cut is when an editor decides to cut between the same shot. This has a jarring effect as we see characters and props move unnaturally, often to show the passing of time which inherently justifies the use of these shots in montages. An example of a jump cut being used to show the passing of time can be seen in the film: “Scott Pilgrim VS The World” as we see Scott lie down in bed and after a brief moment we cut to him being awoken the next morning. Through this jump cut we can see that time has passed and furthermore there is comic value to this jump cut as the little sleep he is able to get is emphasised by the quick cut.  

Jump cuts can also be used to intensify the action of a scene and dramatise often menial events. Once again, Edgar Wright is the all-time king of this and examples of it can be found throughout The Cornetto Trilogy. For example, in “The World’s End” we see a jump cut between 4 pints being filled, there is no camera movement and the editor simply cuts between the shots of the individual pint glasses being filled. Once again, the speed of these shots is used to comic effect when it is revealed that after the 4 quick shots of pints being filled, we see a very slow and drawn out shot of a glass of water being filmed. When put into context of one character choosing not to drink this jump cut singles out the water as the odd one out and the change in pace brings humour to the scene. Therefore, whether jump cuts are being used to show the passing of time or intensifying the drama of a scene, when used properly they can make a scene funny and intense.