Cigarette Time Passage Transition

What does it look like?

This transition is two shots: the first sets up the scene while the second shows a cigarette that has burned down to the filter. This visual cue is enough for an audience to know that time has passed and they’re now ready to continue the scene.

How’s it done?

The transition is just a simple straight cut done in post-production.

When should I use it?

Use this shot to let the audience know that the characters have been talking for a long period of time. It’s a great way to show a character explaining himself or his problems but without the exposition.

Unknown (2011)

Synopsis: Liam Neeson stars as a man who regains consciousness after an auto accident only to discover that another ...

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