Definition & Meaning of "negative cutting"

What is "negative cutting"?

Negative cutting is the process of editing and joining the original film stock negative, which is the raw footage from which the final film prints are made. This involves physically cutting and connecting sections of the film negative to match the desired sequence and remove any unwanted material. The edited negative is then used to create the final positive prints or digital transfers of the film. This technique allows for precise control over the film's structure and content before it is reproduced for distribution.