Methods and apparatus for detecting movement in a composite television signal. A first difference signal is generated according to the difference between an N.sup.th frame and an N-2.sup.th frame of a composite television signal. A second difference signal is generated by Y/C separation of an N.sup.th frame and the N-1.sup.th frame of the composite television signal. A smooth signal is generated according to the smoothness of the N.sup.th frame and the N-1.sup.th frame of the composite television signal. The first and second difference signals are output selectively according to the smooth signal.