A match cut is a cut from one shot to another where the composition of the two shots is matched by the action or subject and subject matter. It is any transition, audio or visual, that uses elements from the previous scene to fluidly bring the viewer through to the next scene,
Are you confused by this definition? Don’t be. Just watch this mini clip from the 1965 super hit film Waqt directed by Yash Chopra. Listen closely to the dialogue between Meena (Sadhana) and Ravi (Sunil Dutt) at the party.
Ravi says “ Meena, say something.
Meena says What can I say
Ravi says “Anything”
Meena says “ Ravi I am afraid of what will happen to us.
Ravi says “ Meena, Do You love me?
Meena says “ of course Ravi. Is there any doubt?
Ravi says “Meena I know you love me and You know that II love you. Leave the rest to destiny.
As soon as he completes his sentence, you hear the song Aage Bhi Jaane Na Tu, Peeche Bhi Jaane Na Tu. This mellifluous song sung by Asha Bhonsale perfectly matches the mood of Ravi and Meena. As you listen to this beautiful song, you feel as if this song is especially sung for Meena and Ravi.
So what is this match cut doing? It is creating the illusion of continuity from one shot to another.
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