Continuity Editing

Whiplash Date Scene Analysis

The date scene in Whiplash (2014), uses multiple forms of continuity editing to support its narrative’s meaning. The scene varies through use of several different shots such as: close ups, long shots and etc.

The scene opens with a long shot. This shot depicts the setting and visually suggests y=that the characters are on the same level. The scene then goes through a series of medium shots between Andrew and Nicole as they get to know each other. The medium shot creates a sense of distance which reflects that this is their first date and they are still getting to know each other. Additionally, it sets up the emotional distance they both share.

During the second stage of dialogue, Andrew and Nicole try to open up to each other more, the audience decipher from the use of medium shots that they’re both very shy and therefore find it difficult to bond emotionally.

There is a close up when he asks Nichole “what do you do?” which implies that this is an important question to Andrew; how he keenly and interestingly wants an answer. Furthermore, this is a way for the director to show that Andrew is moving forward on his date.

Their approach and level of importance they give their career choices begins to create a distance between them. This is shown when we return back to the establishing shot at the beginning of the scene, this is also called a re-establishing shot, as this show that they have to start over again.

Nicole chooses to start and lead off the conversation. We then cut to the medium shot of Andrew connoting that there is no longer tension and awkwardness. There is now a close up on Nicole and this is to indicate to us that Nichole is about to tell us something serious worth paying attention too; in which she does: her confession. The scene alternates between a series of close up shots as the two of them attempt to spark a connection. Andrew then makes a confession and a close up is used to show the seriousness of what he’s about to say and how it is worth paying attention to detail.

As both of them find something in common, a medium shot displaying both characters is used to suggest t are a good match. There is then an extreme close up of the character’s feet touching. This is a successful feature as not only does the ECU emphasise how far they have come, from the ES at the start; it also emphasises the ideology that they are fully connected from head to toe, suggesting successfulness in the relationship.