The concept refers to a film editing technique used to indicate what a character is looking at. It involves cutting between a shot of a character looking off-screen and a subsequent shot revealing the object or person they are observing. For example, a scene might present an individual gazing upward, followed by a view of an airplane soaring in the sky. This creates a spatial relationship, suggesting the character’s viewpoint and connecting them to the subject of their gaze.
This technique serves to establish spatial continuity and guide the audience’s attention. It enhances viewer engagement by providing a clear understanding of characters’ perspectives and motivations, thereby contributing to narrative clarity. Historically, this editing choice has been a cornerstone of classical filmmaking, ensuring seamless transitions and maintaining audience immersion.