Storytelling and Narrative Editing Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'B-roll' in video production?

Answer: Supplemental footage used to cut away from the main subject for visual variety and context

B-roll is supplemental footage that editors cut to during interviews or narration to illustrate points, provide visual variety, and add context to the story.

What does 'in media res' mean in storytelling?

Answer: Beginning a story in the middle of the action without prior explanation

In media res (Latin for 'into the middle of things') is a narrative technique that begins the story in the middle of the action, with backstory revealed later.

What is a 'non-linear narrative' in film?

Answer: A story told out of chronological order, using flashbacks, flash-forwards, or parallel timelines

A non-linear narrative presents story events out of chronological sequence, using techniques like flashbacks, flash-forwards, and intersecting timelines.

What is the role of a 'narrative arc' in video storytelling?

Answer: The structural journey of a story from setup through conflict to resolution

A narrative arc describes the overall structure of a story — setup, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution — providing a satisfying journey for the audience.

What is 'subtext' in film storytelling?

Answer: The underlying meaning, emotion, or motivation beneath what characters explicitly say or do

Subtext is the unspoken emotional or thematic content beneath the surface of dialogue and action — what characters really mean versus what they literally say.

What does 'coverage' mean in film production?

Answer: The variety of shots (wide, medium, close-up) filmed for a scene to give the editor options

Coverage refers to filming a scene from multiple angles and distances to give the editor sufficient options for cutting the scene together effectively.