Micro Aspects Test

1. What is continuity editing? (1)

the most common type of editing, which aims to create a sense of reality
and time moving forward. Also nick named invisible editing referring to
how the technique does not draw attention to the editing process.
2. What is an abrupt disorientating transition in between the middle of a
continuous shot called? (1)
Jump Cut
3. When is cross-cutting used? (1)
the editing technique of alternating, interweaving, or interspersing one
narrative action (scene, sequence or event) with another – usually in
different locations or places, thus combining the two: this editing technique
usually suggests Parallel action (that takes place simultaneously). Often
used to dramatically build tension and/or suspense in chase scenes or to
compare two different scenes. Also known as inter-cutting or parallel
editing
4. What is a brief shot that momentarily interrupts continuous action by briefly
inserting another related action called? (1)
Cutaways
5. Why would an eye-line match be used? (1)
a type of edit which cuts from one character to what that character has
been looking at
6. What is montage editing? Why might it be used? (2)
the juxtaposition of seemingly unconnected images in order to create
meaning
7. What are the 3 essential ingredients when analysing sound? (3)

the human voice /dialogue

sound effects

music

8. What is sound aiming to create? (1)

realism and drama
9. What is non diegetic sound? (1)
sound that takes place outside the world of the story
10. What is diegetic sound? (1)
any sound or music that happens inside the world of the story
11. Why might 1st person narration be used? (2)
 information about the central character
 build his/her representation
  allow privileged information – so sometimes we will know more
than the other characters on screen- which creates drama
12. What is the difference between parallel and contrapuntal sound? (2)
 Parallel sound = when we watch a TV drama the sound we hear
usually compliments and follows what we see on screen
 Contrapuntal sound = is sound that does not fit the images we see
on screen. Usually done to create an effect
13. What is mise en scene? (2)
 Everything in the picture you can see
 Costume, lighting, props, setting, colour, make up etc
14. Why is mise en scene important? (2)
 It helps to create realism
 It can reveal the genre
15. What things might the setting reveal? (2)
 Location, time of day, time period, weather, seasons etc
16. What is an establishing shot and why is it important? (2)
A wide/long shot used at the beginning of a scene to establish where the
action is taking place.
17. What is an aerial shot and why is it important? (2)
A shot taken from high above looking down on the action – can be used to
show the location, CCTV footage, to make characters appear
small/insignificant
18. What is an enigma code? (1)
A mystery/puzzle which the audience are waiting to be solved in the plot.
19. What does equilibrium mean? (1)
A state of normality where things are calm for the characters – takes place
before a disruption (Todorov’s theory).
20. What does iconography mean? (1)

A key sign or symbol in the text which gives connotations to the audience
e.g. the roses in American Beauty are icons of Lester’s infatuation.