What cinematic technique involves the use of rapid cuts to create a sense of urgency or excitement?

The selected answer refers to the technique of montage, which involves the juxtaposition of rapid cuts between scenes or shots to convey a sense of urgency, excitement, or emotional intensity. This editing style can effectively heighten tension and create dynamic pacing in a film. By rapidly shifting between images or sequences, filmmakers can manipulate the viewer's perception of time and space, drawing them into a thrilling experience. This is often employed in action sequences, trailers, or pivotal plot moments to enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.

In contrast, slow motion is used to stretch out time, giving the audience a chance to absorb details or heightening drama at crucial moments. An establishing shot serves to provide context or set the scene and is typically longer in duration, creating a sense of place rather than urgency. A close-up focuses on a subject's facial expressions or specific details, which can enhance emotion but does not inherently convey urgency in the same rapid-fire fashion that a montage does. Therefore, montage is the technique that most effectively communicates urgency and excitement through rapid cuts.