smash cut
Abrupt scene change
A smash cut is an abrupt transition in film or video editing where one scene cuts instantly to another without any transitional effect, typically used to create shock, humor, or dramatic contrast.
The technique often juxtaposes contradictory images or sounds—a character saying I would never do that followed by a smash cut to them doing exactly that.
Unlike a standard cut, a smash cut deliberately jars the viewer, making it a favorite device in comedies and thrillers.
- cutawayView with exterior removed
- shockViolent sudden disturbance
- editModify written material
- editing techniqueProcess for refining content
- snapSudden sharp sound
flash · disorientation · bang · juxtaposition · crash · cinema · suspense · comedic timing · sequence · misdirection · burst · scene transition · humor · fourth wall break · irony · montage · intensity · blackout
- film editingediting, film editing, editor, splice, splicing
- screenwriting techniquesdialogue, exposition, flashback, montage, voice-over
- transitionstransition, blending, segue, fade, changeover