Cross cutting/ Parallel editing is the technique of alternating two or more scenes that often happen simultaneously but in different locations. In a cross–cut, the camera will cut away from one action to another action, which can suggest the simultaneity of these two actions but this is not always the case. If the scenes are simultaneous, they occasionally culminate in a single place, where the relevant parties confront each other.

Why use it?

To add interest and excitement to an otherwise boring sequence. Parallel editing is often applied to create suspense.

Now let’s look at an example from “The Goonies”:

Here is another two examples of how cross-cutting is incorporated in film:

(n Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972), parallel editing is used to develop theme. The cross cutting back and forth during the baptism scene shows the contradictory lives of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino). In the church, Michael accepts God and renounces Satan. But parallel editing shows hitmen recruited by Michael murdering his enemies. The paradox is evident. Whereas in one scene Michael fulfills his religious obligations, in the other he carries on his mafia duties.)

DO: Consider the purpose of each scene.

Before you start to construct your exciting sequence of cross-cut events, think about how each scene will affect the others around it. For example let’s say you have a bomb timer counting down. Pretty classic device. You’d want to intermittently use portions of this scene as a way of reminding the audience that there is an urgent deadline approaching. This is a basic example but illustrates proper use of the technique.

DO: Use this technique to help with pacing

Cross-cutting is a terrific way to speed things up or slow them down. Each little vignette you cut to can be as long or as short as you want. Just bear in mind that hanging on any given shot for too long could slow down the momentum. Conversely, cutting away too quickly might be confusing for the viewer. You’ll need to use your best judgement.

DON’T: Lose track of where everyone is

Remember that as an editor it’s our job to help the audience understand what’s happening. By cutting away from one scene and focusing on another, it’s important to remind the audience of where they are when you change the scene.

 

If you want to find out more, there is heaps of information online, like here for example: https://www.filmeditingpro.com/film-editing-techniques-cross-cutting-101/