Transitions act as a bridge between scenes, making the reader aware of a jump in time and/or space, while also telling the editor how to move from one scene to the next.
Watch the video below for some proper formatting examples! 👇
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Match Cut
A tricky form of edit that matches the previous scene's final shot with the following scenes first shot. (i.e. a shot of a knife cutting a tarp matched to: a knife making an incision.)
Like this:
INT. BASEMENT - NIGHT
Jack lays a tarp on the table. He takes the KNIFE and cuts it down the middle.
MATCH CUT TO:
INT. BASEMENT - NIGHT
Jack takes the KNIFE and begins to make an incision down the middle of the cadavers chest.
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Smash To
A very abrupt form of cut that happens in mid sentence, usually used to add a dramatic or comedic effect.
Like this:
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Tracy, Sarah and Kelsey are sitting at a booth.
TRACY
I told Kevin I would behave myself tonight.
So I'm not drinking.
SARAH
Come on, we're celebrating!
KELSEY
It's not everyday I book a role in a
Nicholas Sparks movie adaptation!
TRACY
Ok, but I'm only going to have --
SMASH CUT TO:
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Tracy is dancing on top of the bar, clearly very intoxicated.