Why Some Scenes in Your Favorite Action Movies Look Jerky

Have you ever watched an action movie with scenes that felt jarring or jerky instead of smooth and fluid? There are several reasons why this phenomenon occurs, often contributing to the film's unique visual tone. This article will explore the reasons behind such jerky movements in action scenes, drawing from the film Mad Max: Fury Road as an example.

Cinematography Style: Creating Urgency and Chaos

The film Mad Max: Fury Road utilizes a distinctive visual style that includes rapid editing, dynamic camera movements, and a mix of practical effects. These techniques can make scenes feel urgent and chaotic, contributing to the perceived jerky movement of characters.

Practical Effects: The Physicality of Stunts

Much of the action in Mad Max: Fury Road was achieved through practical effects and real stunts, rather than CGI. The physicality involved in these stunts often results in movements that appear less fluid compared to digital effects. This is a common technique in action films where the authenticity of the physical performance can enhance the realism and intensity of the scene.

Fast and Slow Motion Techniques

The film employs both fast and slow motion techniques. These can create abrupt transitions in character movements, which can enhance the intensity of action sequences but may also contribute to a jerky appearance. filmmakers use these techniques strategically to match the pacing and intensity needed for each scene.

Character Design and Costuming

The costumes and equipment worn by characters can also restrict their movement, causing them to move in a more exaggerated or abrupt manner, especially in high-intensity action scenes. Practical constraints like heavy armor, elaborate costumes, or specific gear designs can affect how characters can move on screen.

Editing Techniques: Rapid Cuts and Disruption

The film's editing style often cuts rapidly between shots, which can disrupt the flow of movement and create a sense of disorientation. This technique aligns with the chaotic and frenetic tone of the film, emphasizing the tension and urgency in action sequences.

Practical Examples: Mad Max: Fury Road

In Mad Max: Fury Road, director George Miller would adjust the edge rate on specific shots, creating a sense of uneven movement that suits the scene's requirements. For instance, in a scene where Nux crashes into a sandstorm with lightning illuminating his face, the deliberate use of a jerky edge rate emphasizes the peril and chaos of the situation. This is a popular shot in action films, as it adds to the authenticity and impact of the action sequence.

The Illusion of Movement

The quantity of edges (or frames) per second is just one element of the perception of movement. Real-world objects do not move in single, continuous lines but rather in sequences of rapid frames. When a camera captures a moving object, it creates a movement blur. The faster the object moves, the more blurred it appears, similar to how a still photograph captures movement.

When viewed in rapid succession, this blur creates the illusion of continuous motion. However, the continuous movement on screen looks jerky when viewed in close inspection, as the eye cannot always follow the quick movements of objects. This effect is more noticeable in films that showcase rapid editing and fast-paced action sequences.

Conclusion

While jerky movements in action scenes can feel jarring to the viewer, they serve a purpose in creating a specific visual and emotional tone. From the practical effects used to the rapid editing techniques, these elements work together to enhance the intensity and urgency of the scenes, contributing to the overall cinematic experience.