Editing technique · used in 1 film

Slow-Motion Previsualization

Showing a character's plan as slow-motion images with their own narration, then replaying the action at full speed. You see the thinking first, so the fast action pays it off.

Examples

Where you can see it

  1. Sherlock Holmes (2009) poster

    Sherlock Holmes

    Guy Ritchie · 2009

    Ritchie lets you inside Holmes's head before a fight. He sizes up his opponent in slow motion and tells you what he will do, then the same fight plays at full speed. It makes a brawler out of a thinker, and you feel clever for following.

    Where to see it: The boxing match. Holmes narrates how he will beat his opponent, then the fight runs at full speed and follows the plan.

Questions

Quick answers

What is slow-motion previsualization in film?
Showing a character's plan as slow-motion images with their own narration, then replaying the action at full speed. You see the thinking first, so the fast action pays it off.
Which films use slow-motion previsualization?
Sherlock Holmes (2009).
What kind of technique is slow-motion previsualization?
It is a editing technique. Related editing techniques include Kinetic Set Piece Architecture, Animation as Emotional Amplifier, Callback Editing.

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