Gangs of New York (2002)

Gangs of New York (2002) Knife Scene
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVggUxEgv5k

When I was watching this film I found that I enjoyed this scene above else in this film. I found that the editing really helps to build tension and the editing creates a lot of impact on the viewer. When I was watching this scene for the first time I couldn't tell what was about to happen and the editing really helped to demonstrate a build in tension.

For example, at 0:33 there are 5 cuts which I found to be powerful on the viewer.

We see these 5 shots in the space of 2 seconds and it happens so fast and aggressively that the viewer is left in suspense. I liked this editing because it kept to real time, so in real life if a man were to throw knifes at a woman it would happen that fast, and I find that this is more engaging for the viewer. This proves how editing can make an impact on the viewer. After these shots, the camera cuts back to show the audiences reaction which reflects what the audience watching the film would feel towards this scene.

Another reason why this edit has been so impactful on the viewer is because of the quick cuts and the cut to motion, cutting to motion helps shots look seamless and it keeps the viewer engaged.

Gangs of New York (2002) The Priest's Son
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQy5xztHVPQ

 

Again as seen here, when something happens in the scene that builds suspense the camera quickly cuts back to show the audiences reaction to what is happening. This helps to build tension and reflects the audiences reaction in the film.

 

 

I found that this scene where the knife is thrown in the air has good motion and continuity, each of these two shots flow seamlessly together.

After all this build up in tension, suddenly the knife drops at a really fast pace. This edit has really built up the tension and suddenly the viewer is left wondering what will happen in this shot.

 

 

And finally, the event happens and it cuts back to the audience reaction.