Jump Cut

A jump cut is a film editing technique where a single continuous shot is broken into two or more parts, creating a noticeable jump forward in time. This abrupt cut disrupts the smooth flow of action, making the subject appear to “jump” within the frame. Unlike traditional editing techniques that prioritize seamless transitions, jump cuts intentionally draw attention to the edit, often creating a sense of urgency, unease, or stylization.

Characteristics of a Jump Cut

1. A visible “jump” in movement due to the removal of frames.
2. The background remains largely unchanged while the subject shifts position.
3. Often used to skip unnecessary moments and condense time.

Common Uses of Jump Cuts

1. Time Compression – Removes redundant or slow moments, speeding up a scene.
2. Emphasizing Urgency or Disorientation – Often used in action scenes or psychological thrillers.
3. Stylistic Choice – Popular in experimental, documentary, and vlog-style videos.
4. Breaking the Fourth Wall – Makes the audience aware of the filmmaking process.

Examples of Jump Cuts in Films

• Breathless (1960) – Jean-Luc Godard’s revolutionary use of jump cuts in the French New Wave.
• Snatch (2000) – Fast-paced editing and jump cuts to emphasize action.
• Run Lola Run (1998) – Jump cuts used to build energy and tension.

Jump cuts are often avoided in traditional continuity editing but can be used deliberately for artistic or narrative impact.

Additional Reading

• Wikipedia – Jump Cut