In many films, each scene may last a matter of seconds, or it can continue for minutes but the length of each sequence establishes the pace of the film moving the action along.
The speed of editing will help to determine the mood of what taking place on screen.
When the audience feel anxiety and suspense, it is because the editing is quick and the scenes/shots are changing frequently. For example in an action sequence.
This can be seen in the movie The Bourne Ultimatum with the big action seen between Bourne vs Desh.
In romantic comedy, there is a relaxed mood desired. the scenes last longer and change less frequently.
This can be seen in the film The Note Book.
A film need not have any editing. The film Russian Ark was filmed in one take using a steadicam and a digital camera. This required split-second timing and organisation.
Trailer for a film needs to pack in detail from though out the film. The editing will be very fast. This can be seen in the trailer of the second Hunger Game film Catching Fire.
Cross Cutting
Cross Cutting is when you edit two sequences together that the audience need to know are connected in a way. This can be seen when something is happening at the same time but in a different location or when a character is reliving a memory.
Developing Drama
Cross Cutting can be used to very effectively develop a scene of drama. This can be seen in the opening scene of the movie Scream when the death of Casey is made more dramatic by the cross cutting to her parents approaching the house and almost making it home in time to save her from her death.
This post needs some more examples, particularly at the start, and don't forget to write about the examples you put in - you could add a little bit to your Scream example about how this cross cutting has an effect on the audience - how does it make them feel?
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