2.0 KiB
2.0 KiB
J & L Cuts – The Invisible Glue
| Name | What viewer hears first | Emotional effect |
|---|---|---|
| J‑Cut | Audio from next scene | Curiosity / anticipation |
| L‑Cut | Audio from current scene | Continuity / warmth |
Note: Use this title slide to remind participants that picture need not dictate structure—audio is often the real storyteller.
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1. Anatomy of a J‑Cut
Picture AAAAA|BBBBB
Audio BBBBB
Timeline «——— J ——»
- The viewer hears Scene B before seeing it.
- Creates a soft entry; ideal when dialog leads audiences into a new space.
Note: Walk the room through the ASCII timeline: top row picture, bottom row audio. Point out the “hook” that pulls us forward.
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2. Anatomy of an L‑Cut
Picture AAAAA|BBBBB
Audio AAAAA
Timeline «——— L ——»
- Scene A’s sound lingers under Scene B visuals.
- Masks jump‑cuts, preserves emotional resonance.
Note: Contrast with a hard cut: play a harsh dialog‑to‑B‑roll cut, then the same with an L‑cut to prove smoothness.
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3. When to Use J/L Cuts
- Interviews – hide camera angle switches, smooth answers over B‑roll.
- Narrative – carry a scream or laugh across a reaction shot.
- Documentary – lead viewers with ambient sound into the next location.
- Music videos – sync lyrical phrases over new imagery.
Note: Encourage students to listen for J/L cuts in nightly news pieces—they’re everywhere once you notice.
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4. Common Pitfalls
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Echo / double room‑tone | Cross‑fade or room‑tone bed |
| Spoken word clash | Roll‑back offset; respect pauses |
| Music key change clash | Insert a whoosh SFX or buffer clip |
Note: Mention Audacity workflow: you can extend a room‑tone bed to cover the overlap cleanly.