ABSTRACT
What are the tools editors use to create rhythm? This chapter intro-
duces timing, pacing, and trajectory phrasing as the three key tools uti-
lized by editors to shape rhythmic sequences.
Timing and pacing, as discussed in the introduction, are often con-
fused or substituted for rhythm as a whole. Timing and pacing are also
used to describe a variety of aspects of rhythm or the rhythm-making
process. The words “ timing ” and “ pacing ” are sometimes used when
discussing attributes of rhythm (things that fi lms have when they have
rhythm). They are also used as words to describe faculties inherent in
the editor. One hears “she has good timing ” or “she has a strong sense
of pacing ” as descriptions of intuition about rhythm. Finally, they are
tools that can be used to create rhythms in the editing process. Their
function as tools is the primary concern of this chapter. However, given
that timing and pacing are also attributes of rhythm and faculties of
editors shaping the rhythm, the functioning of timing and pacing as
attributes and faculties will also be touched upon herein.
