Match on Action.

Daniel Wright

Match on action is where two sequences are put together and make it seem as if they are seamless and flow fluidly while masking the cut in-between the two sequences.

It is a very simple editing technique, the action is used a lot in films today, it is very useful if a filmmaker wants to view the scene in a different perspective and mask the cut at the same time. The actors action in the first shot will always end in the second shot.

Match on action example video

 

While doing a match on action there are certain procedures you have to take in mind. When flowing from one shot to the next you have to make sure that, The character is wearing the same costumes, is continuing his/her actions as from the first shot, the character is holding the same prop (if holding a prop), Hairstyle, facial expression and many more.

Match on action example picture

                                    

This example from Anchor-man shows us the character standing facing towards the character sitting behind the desk. When the shot changes perspective to the whole room the characters are still in the same positions as before but then carry on the actions from the first shot these actions will finish at the end of the second shot.