Here's why:
* Montage is a powerful cinematic technique, not just padding. It's a sequence of short shots, often used to compress time, show the passage of time, or convey a specific emotion or idea. It can be used to:
* Compress time: Show weeks, months, or years in a few minutes.
* Illustrate a character's journey: Depicting their growth or struggles.
* Create emotional impact: Through juxtaposing images or sounds.
* Build suspense: By showing a series of events leading to a climax.
* Montage can be used for padding. In some cases, filmmakers might use montage to artificially lengthen a film's running time, especially if the story feels thin or lacks substantial content. This can be done by using repetitive or unnecessary shots.
* It's about intention and execution. A well-crafted montage is a vital storytelling tool, while a poorly executed one can feel like filler.
In conclusion: Montage is a versatile technique, but it's not inherently about padding. Its effectiveness depends on the filmmaker's intent and how well it's implemented in the narrative.