Most editors use Adjustment Layers only for color. They're actually one of the most versatile tools in Premiere Pro's arsenal.
1. Film Grain and Texture
Apply the Noise effect to an Adjustment Layer at 5-10% intensity. This adds consistent film grain across your entire sequence. Adjust it once, affects everything. Remove the layer for a clean master if needed.
2. Letterboxing / Aspect Ratio Bars
Apply the Crop effect to an Adjustment Layer. Set top and bottom crop to create cinematic 2.39:1 bars over 16:9 footage. Animate the crop values for reveals. Keep on a separate track so you can toggle for different deliverables.
3. Transition Effects
Place an Adjustment Layer at a cut point and apply a short (6-8 frame) blur, flash, or zoom effect. The transition applies to both clips at the edit point without modifying either clip directly.
4. Vignette
Use the Circle effect or a Lumetri vignette on an Adjustment Layer. Consistent framing across every shot without individually applying to each clip.
5. Review and QC Markers
Create an Adjustment Layer with a bright border or "DRAFT" text overlay. Place it across your entire sequence during review. Delete it before final export. Clean, non-destructive workflow.