The rule of six is a filmmaking guideline that emphasizes the importance of prioritizing emotional impact over technical perfection in editing. Coined by editor Walter Murch, this rule helps filmmakers make decisions that enhance the story’s emotional resonance.

What Is the Rule of Six in Filmmaking?

The rule of six is a set of priorities that guide editors in making cuts that serve the story. Walter Murch, a renowned film editor, introduced this concept in his book "In the Blink of an Eye." According to Murch, the six priorities are:

1. Emotion (51%): The cut should be true to the emotion of the moment.
2. Story (23%): The cut should advance the story.
3. Rhythm (10%): The cut should occur at a moment that is rhythmically interesting and "right."
4. Eye-trace (7%): The cut should respect the audience’s focus of interest within the frame.
5. Two-dimensional plane of screen (5%): The cut should respect the two-dimensional continuity of the screen.
6. Three-dimensional space of action (4%): The cut should respect the three-dimensional continuity of the actual space.

Why Is Emotion the Most Important Aspect?

Emotion is paramount because it directly engages the audience, creating a memorable and impactful viewing experience. When an edit captures the emotional truth of a scene, it resonates more deeply, making the story more compelling. This focus on emotion ensures that technical aspects serve the narrative rather than distract from it.

How Does the Rule of Six Affect Storytelling?

Adhering to the rule of six ensures that every cut serves the story’s progression. By prioritizing emotion and story, editors create a seamless narrative flow that maintains audience engagement. This approach helps filmmakers deliver a coherent and emotionally satisfying experience.

Practical Examples of the Rule of Six

• Emotion over Continuity: In a dramatic confrontation scene, an editor might choose a reaction shot that captures an actor’s emotional response, even if it slightly disrupts visual continuity.
• Rhythm in Action Scenes: During a fast-paced chase, maintaining rhythm can heighten tension, even if it means cutting away from perfect continuity.

How to Apply the Rule of Six in Editing

To effectively use the rule of six, editors should:

• Focus on the emotional core of each scene.
• Ensure each cut advances the story.
• Balance rhythm to maintain audience engagement.
• Guide the viewer’s eye naturally through the scene.
• Respect visual and spatial continuity without compromising emotional impact.

People Also Ask

What Are the Benefits of the Rule of Six in Filmmaking?

The rule of six enhances storytelling by ensuring that every cut serves the narrative and emotional goals. It helps editors make decisions that prioritize the audience’s experience, resulting in a more engaging film.

How Do Editors Balance Emotion and Technical Aspects?

Editors balance emotion and technical aspects by using the rule of six as a guideline. They prioritize emotional truth and story progression while considering rhythm and continuity to maintain a cohesive narrative.

Can the Rule of Six Be Applied in Other Media?

Yes, the rule of six can be applied in other media, such as television and web series. The principles of prioritizing emotion and story over technical perfection are universal in visual storytelling.

What Are Some Famous Films Edited Using the Rule of Six?

Many acclaimed films have been edited using principles similar to the rule of six. Walter Murch applied these techniques in films like "The English Patient" and "Apocalypse Now," known for their strong emotional impact and storytelling.

How Can New Filmmakers Learn to Apply the Rule of Six?

New filmmakers can learn to apply the rule of six by studying Murch’s work and practicing their editing skills. Analyzing scenes with a focus on emotion and story can help develop an intuitive understanding of effective editing.

Conclusion

The rule of six is a powerful tool for filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of emotion and storytelling in editing. By following this guideline, editors can create films that resonate deeply with audiences, ensuring a memorable and impactful viewing experience. For those interested in filmmaking, understanding and applying the rule of six can significantly enhance their storytelling capabilities. To further explore this topic, consider reading Walter Murch’s "In the Blink of an Eye" for more detailed insights.