1.8 KiB
180‑Degree Rule
The camera must stay on one side of an imaginary line (the axis of action) so that left and right remain consistent for the viewer.
This is not The Matrix, you are not one of the Wachowskis.
Note: Introduce the idea of spatial grammar; viewers build a mental map within seconds. Violating it breaks immersion.
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180‑Degree Rule
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180‑Degree Rule
The Axis of Action
- Subject A always screen‑left, Subject B screen‑right.
- Any camera placed within the 180° arc keeps this orientation.
Note: Point to coloured semicircle on slide—explain that this is the camera's “safe zone.”
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What Happens If You Cross?
- Subjects swap screen sides → confusion.
- Eyelines no longer match → broken eye contact.
- Movement direction reverses (car appears to turn around).
Note: Play a 5‑second clip of a conversation where one shot accidentally crosses; ask the room what feels “wrong.”
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Three Ways to Cross Cleanly
- Neutral (on‑line) shot – cut to a shot that sits directly on the axis, then to the new side.
- Visible camera move – dolly/pan across the line within a single shot.
- Subject movement – have the actor walk across the axis; cut once they’ve settled on the other side.
Note: Emphasise that each method gives the audience a visual “ticket” allowing the flip.
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Breaking the Rule — Deliberately
Rules are guidelines; break them with intent.
- Fight chaos, dream logic, psychological disorientation.
- Use colour or lighting cues to anchor geography even when L/R flips.
Note: Show quick montage from "The Bourne Ultimatum" to illustrate purposeful disorientation.