L-cut
Sound precedes image
An L-cut is a film editing technique where the audio from one shot continues into the next shot, creating an overlap between what viewers hear and see.
The name comes from the L-shape this creates on an editing timeline.
L-cuts smooth transitions and build continuity—a character's voice might carry over as the camera cuts to show what they're describing: The director used an L-cut to let her monologue continue over shots of the empty house.
Change from one state
- audioTransmitted sound content
- overlapPartial coincidence of coverage
- dialogueSpoken exchange between parties
- continuityUninterrupted progression or coherence
splice · timeline · sequence · cutaway · reaction shot · conversation · interview · post-production
transition
Change from one state
- audioTransmitted sound content
- overlapPartial coincidence of coverage
- dialogueSpoken exchange between parties
continuity · splice · timeline · sequence · cutaway · reaction shot · conversation · interview · post-production · editor
pacing
Rate of movement
seamless · smooth · invisible · storytelling · narrative · dramatic · reveal · anticipation · suspense · emotional