cutandstop

Cutandstop is a film editing technique that alternates rapid cuts with deliberate pauses, producing a rhythmic pattern that interrupts continuous movement. The term is used mainly in discussions of editing rhythm within contemporary cinema, music videos, and online video content. The origin is unclear, but the approach gained traction in editing circles during the 2010s as creators experimented with pacing to heighten tension and focus.

Technique: to execute cutandstop, editors place short cuts of a few frames followed by a held shot, freeze-frame, or a moment of silence in the audio. The pauses typically last from one to several seconds, drawing attention to reaction, detail, or breath.

Applications: used in suspense and thriller sequences to puncture momentum, in action scenes to heighten shock, in comedy to land a joke, and in short-form content to sustain engagement.

Variations and related terms: the approach can be paired with freeze-frames, slow motion, or rhythm cues; it is distinct from continuous-motion jump cuts, though it shares emphasis on tempo. It is often discussed alongside montage and rhythm editing.

Reception: editors praise its clarity and punch when used sparingly, but critics warn that excessive use can feel gimmicky or disruptive to narrative flow.