What defines a video cut?

A video cut is defined as a shot that immediately follows another shot without any transition effect, such as a fade or dissolve. This technique is essential in filmmaking and video editing, as it enables a seamless flow from one scene or moment to another, maintaining the narrative pace and keeping the audience engaged. Cuts can help in storytelling by showing different angles, perspectives, or even contrasting scenes quickly, which can evoke emotions or emphasize story elements without unnecessary delays.

In contrast, the other options describe different techniques or types of shots that do not embody the concept of a cut. A gradual transition references a dissolve or fade, a shot that includes the entire subject may be more associated with framing or composition rather than cutting, and emphasizing a specific detail pertains to techniques like close-ups or cuts to details, rather than the action of cutting itself. Thus, the essence of a video cut lies in its immediate and direct nature between two sequential shots.