Tag: movies

Cinematic Insight: Cutting to Continuity in Presentations

cinematic technique

continuity cutting

movies

presentation tip

Presentations

resource

Rick Enrico

SlideGenius

Oct 03, 2016

Continuity cutting is one of the most commonly used methods in filmmaking and editing. It’s associated with maintaining the flow of a scene or action sequence to preserve the illusion of reality on screen.Missing a small part of this technique can create lapses on a sequence of shots and angles, as well as frame size. In fact, even blockbuster movies fall victim to continuity errors, including Mel Gibson’s Braveheart.Simon Gallagher, Executive Director at What Culture, reviewed the said historical drama epic film and revealed movie goofs that might have been overlooked during the editing phase. One example is when a crew member was seen wearing a baseball cap at the back of the Scottish warriors.What’s the issue here? Sporty caps weren’t common yet in the 13th century, so this one badly compromised the period setting.This explains the importance of cutting to continuity. Failure to establish coherence between shots distorts the illusion of realism, causing audiences to express disbelief.

How Does it Relate to Presentations?

The purpose of continuity editing is to create smooth transitions between shots. Though this method is predominantly used in the film industry, it can also be applied in the context of presentations.If movie scenes are expected to run seamlessly, necessary cuts are likewise important in presentations to achieve a better delivery. The consistency of actors’ costumes, make-up, setting, and props in movies have equal importance with the messages and ideas conveyed in a presentation.Let’s delve deeper into continuity’s two transitional devices and how they’re associated to making professional speeches and presentations:1. CutawayIn film editing, a cutaway shot is an interruption of continuously filmed action by inserting a view of a secondary scene. For instance, a shot is focused in the dance performers on stage. Cutaways might consist of crowds, and cheering fans who are watching intently, applauding, and shouting for joy.These shots may not be a primary part of the main scene, but it helps aid the storytelling process.Cutaways can be equivalent to buffers inserted between topics in a presentation. Plugging in secondary information that’s not directly involved in your message helps build the story.In your presentation, giving out product information is a vital step in selling to prospects and customers. But this one can’t always guarantee you a new deal. That’s why, like a cutaway scene, it helps to skip shortly on the product details, and briefly talk about something else.For example, you can bring your audience’s attention to the challenge or situation they’re experiencing. Share scenarios that touch your customer’s concerns to make your message more relatable. This should be a problem that has not been addressed for them—or addressed well—yet.2. Cut-inAnother method used in cutting to continuity is cut-in. Unlike cutaways, cut-ins are close up shots of something visible in the main scene. They specifically show a part of the subject in detail.Let’s say the main shot is centered around the dancers performing on the stage. The cut-ins could be a close-up shot of a dance crew member. It could be his face, feet and anything that highlights the actual performance.What sets it apart from cutaway is that it focuses more on the parts of the main scene to create emphasis.This cinematic style also works in presentations, especially if you want to emphasize important points in your pitch. If the former suggests inserting points that are relevant to the main idea, this one prioritizes going in-depth with the subject matter.If you’re introducing your company’s newly launched product in a trade show, it’s ideal to demonstrate how it works. Go over all the product’s features and provide a little background information to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Perfect Take!

Cutting to continuity may have been a unique method associated with filmmaking and video editing. But when put into context, this technique can also be applied in public speaking stints.A controlled delivery of information is important in any kind of presentation, and that’s where continuity comes into play.You can either choose between cutaway and cut-in, or you can also apply both at the same time.Use cut-away when you want to condense an extended flow of action. This creates a buffer by sharing information that’s not directly involved with the subject but somehow relevant to it.Try applying cut-ins to highlight the primary purpose of your speech. Delve into the necessary points, no matter how small or big the idea is.Explore these film techniques and be amazed on how it helps you deliver your message!

References

“Continuity Cutting.” Integrated Publishing. n.d. Accessed January 26, 2016. http://photographytraining.tpub.com/14130/css/14130_328.htmGallagher, Simon. “10 Movie Mistakes You Won’t Believe Made It To Screen.” What Culture. November 5, 2012. Accessed January 26, 2016. http://whatculture.com/film/10-movie-mistakes-you-wont-believe-made-it-to-screen.phpOssohou, Eric. “The Art of Cutaway.” VideoMaker. February 1, 2008. Accessed January 26, 2016. www.videomaker.com/article/13850-the-art-of-the-cutaway

Three Presentation Lessons from the Big Screen

movies

presentation lessons

Aug 15, 2014

Movies often captivate audiences with engaging storytelling, impactful visuals, and memorable moments. While presentations and films may seem worlds apart, there are many valuable lessons that presenters can learn from the big screen.Here are three key presentation lessons from the world of movies:

1. Use a Strong Opening Scene

In films, the first few minutes are crucial for grabbing the audience’s attention. Similarly, in a presentation, you need a strong opening that immediately hooks your audience and sets the tone.Why It’s Important:

  • Captures Attention: A compelling opening draws the audience in and piques their curiosity.
  • Establishes Expectations: Just like the opening scene of a movie, your introduction should give the audience a sense of what’s to come.

How to Apply It:

  • Start with a powerful statement, a thought-provoking question, or an intriguing story that ties into your main message.

Example: In a presentation about overcoming challenges, open with a real-life story of someone who faced and conquered a major obstacle.

2. Focus on Visual Storytelling

Movies rely heavily on visuals to tell the story. Whether it’s stunning cinematography or powerful imagery, visual elements are key to conveying the mood and message.Why It’s Important:

  • Keeps the Audience Engaged: Effective visuals can break up text-heavy slides and make the presentation more dynamic.
  • Enhances Understanding: Visual storytelling helps illustrate complex ideas and ensures that the audience remembers key points.

How to Apply It:

  • Use high-quality images, diagrams, or videos to reinforce your points. Avoid cluttering your slides with too much text.

Example: If you’re presenting data, use a simple, clear chart to visually represent the numbers rather than listing them in bullet points.

3. Build to a Climactic Conclusion

Just like a great movie builds to an exciting climax, your presentation should culminate in a strong, memorable conclusion. This is your opportunity to reinforce your main message and leave a lasting impression.Why It’s Important:

  • Leaves a Lasting Impact: A strong conclusion ensures that your key message sticks with the audience.
  • Encourages Action: Like a movie’s resolution, your conclusion should prompt the audience to reflect or take action based on what they’ve heard.

How to Apply It:

  • Summarize the key takeaways and end with a powerful statement, quote, or call to action that reinforces your message.

Example: If you’re presenting on the benefits of a new business strategy, end by summarizing the results your company can expect if they implement the strategy.

Final Thoughts

By applying lessons from the big screen—such as using a strong opening, incorporating visual storytelling, and building to a climactic conclusion—you can create presentations that captivate and inspire your audience just like a great film captivates its viewers.