L Cut
Created on : January 5, 2024 13:30
Denotation
An L cut is a film editing technique in which the audio from a preceding scene carries over the image of the following scene. These cuts allow editors to have the sound or dialogue of one scene linger into the next. The term derives from the “L” shape that the edit looks like on a timeline. The opposite to this cut is the J cut in which the audio of the next scene precedes the shot change.
Description
In the film industry, an "L-cut" refers to a type of film edit where the audio from one film scene extends into the video of the next scene. This creates a smooth and natural transition between scenes, as the audience hears the audio from the upcoming scene before seeing the corresponding visuals.
The term "L-cut" comes from the shape that the audio and video tracks make when represented graphically on an film editing timeline. The audio track of the first scene extends like the horizontal arm of the letter "L" into the video track of the next scene. This film technique is often used to maintain continuity, build anticipation or create a specific Emotional Impact.
For example, in an L-cut, the audience might hear a character speaking or a sound effect from the upcoming scene while still viewing the visuals of the current scene. This can be effective in guiding the audience's attention and smoothly transitioning between different narrative elements.
L-cuts are part of the larger vocabulary of film editing techniques that filmmakers use to craft the pacing, rhythm and emotional tone of a film.