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PCD
Since: May, 2021
23rd Feb, 2024 02:54:14 PM
Sounds like they are saving money by only showing the detailed transformation or attack once, and doing it quicker later.
See Obscured Special Effects and other tropes mentioned there.
Edited by PCD
Florestan
Since: May, 2015
23rd Feb, 2024 08:40:29 PM
(If they actually do continue showing the transformation/etc. in all its time-consuming detail, that might be a case of Engaging Chevrons (YMMV).)
A sort of inverse Monster Threat Expiration - the first time something spectacular happens, it takes a long time, so the viewer can see it every detail. Then, once it's just another aspect of the movie, it happens pretty fast.
For instance, if a character can teleport: The first time it'll take several seconds, with his body starting to glow with amazing special effects, until he finally disappears. Later, during a fight scene, he'll be teleporting everywhere in a fraction of a second. Or a laser-type superpower, it'll take time to charge the first time, then it's instantaneous during battles.