Blog Post:
This is an exercise to illustrate how continuity editing and framing are used to make a space and build a narrative. Select one of these scenes from Duel.
What kind of continuity edits are used to build the scene? Try to use continuity terms:
- 180 degree rule
- 30 degree rule
- Cut in / Match on Action (from wide to close-up or reverse)
- Motivated POV shot
- Shot Reverse Shot
- Empty frame
- Graphic Match
- Parallel action/ Crosscut
Describe how the arrangement of shots make a believable space. How does the framing focus attention to narrative detail? Discuss the role of sound in supporting the spatial relationships made in the cuts. If possible, comment on how the continuity editing in the scene (the spatial and temporal relationships from shot to shot) builds the tension of the story. What narrative information is revealed and concealed in the scene through the cuts?
In the opening scene, the way the shots are arranged really helps set the stage and build tension. Let’s break it down!
180-Degree Rule and Setting the Scene: Right from the start, the film uses the 180-degree rule to keep things clear. The camera stays on one side of the imaginary line between the car and the truck, making sure we understand their positions and relationship. We begin with a wide shot of the two vehicles, then zoom in on the driver of the car. His calm, collected demeanor is immediately clear.
Contrast Between Characters and Vehicles: Next, we get a shot from behind the car, showing what the driver sees. This is where the truck’s imposing presence really stands out. It feels like a big, intimidating machine compared to the calm driver. This contrast sets up the tension between the two and makes us feel the weight of the situation.
Building Tension: As the scene unfolds, we see the driver’s frustration grow. He’s trying to figure out how to get around the truck, and the shots keep cutting back to his increasingly annoyed face. There’s a shot from the front of the truck with the car close behind, highlighting just how uncomfortable the situation is. The camera then zooms in on the driver, focusing on his irritation.
New Setting and Growing Tension: When the driver finally pulls over and gets out, the scene shifts to wider shots around the payphone. We see him using the payphone up close, while cuts between the truck and the driver add to the suspense. The way the camera moves and the shots are framed keep us on edge, highlighting the driver’s growing anxiety.
Role of Sound: Sound plays a big role here too. The noises of the truck and the payphone interactions add to the atmosphere and help us feel the tension in the scene.
Continuity and Narrative Impact: The editing keeps everything flowing smoothly, making sure we understand the spatial and emotional shifts. The cuts reveal the driver’s mounting frustration while keeping the truck driver’s intentions a mystery, which only adds to the suspense.
In summary, the combination of shot arrangement, framing, and sound in this scene does a fantastic job of building tension and drawing us into the unfolding drama.