| Editing Master Class

Enter the creative process of a master editor.

A film has three fundamental phases of creation: writing, production, and editing. The role of a successful film editor is often overlooked by the viewing public. When the editor does the job well, the audience enjoys a seamless storytelling experience from titles to credits.

This workshop is for experienced filmmakers, directors, editors, and producers who want to develop greater sensitivity and skill in editing and shaping dramatic material.  Explore the creative process of editing with the guidance and critique of a master film editor.  Deepen your understanding of scene dynamics, timing and continuity, and the aesthetics of cinematic storytelling.

Once the shooting is over, the editing room delivers revelations of every variety. Whatever the creative vision that has steered the project this far, the editor and director must now react to what has been shot and explore how to heighten what works and transcend what doesn’t.

Students work as part of a creative team while editing, re-editing, and experimenting with selected scenes. Lectures cover editing room dynamics and techniques for heightening tension, performance, and pacing in both comedy and dramatic films. Learn about an editor’s relationship with the director and how each contributes to shaping the film in this crucial phase. By the end of the week, your vision of editing will be transformed.

Students are encouraged to bring an edited sequence, a film, a professional reel, or a rough cut of a current project. Everyone participates in the critiques of peer work. Depending on the schedule, participants will also likely be afforded the opportunity to collaborate with students in other filmmaking workshops happening on campus the same week (i.e. in Cinematography and Directing). Experience with a non-linear editing software (Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid) is required.

Students will have the opportunity to discuss editing and post-production job opportunities in today’s industry, and get insight from the instructor on their experiences and professional career path.

Image Credits:  Jen Hoffer, Devin Altobello