Definition & Meaning of "cut to the chase"

What is the origin of the idiom "cut to the chase" and when to use it?

The idiom "cut to the chase" has its origins in early Hollywood film-making during the silent film era. Film plots often included dramatic and action-filled chase scenes. However, some film-makers felt that these scenes were the most engaging part of the movie, while others were merely filler. To appeal to audiences, studios began placing the most thrilling parts, the "chase scenes," toward the end of the film. The phrase "cut to the chase" then emerged and used as a metaphor for skipping the unnecessary or less interesting parts and getting straight to the exciting and crucial elements.