Make the Cut

Being a successful editor is about more than just knowing how to operate a certain piece of software, or when to make a certain transition. On the contrary, there are many unwritten laws and a sense of propriety that are never discussed or taught in film schools or in other books.

Based on their own experiences, first as upcoming assistant editors, then as successful Hollywood editors, the authors guide you through the ins and outs of establishing yourself as a respectedfilm and video editor.

Insight is included on an array of technical issues such as script breakdown, prepping for sound effects, organizing camera and sound reports, comparison timings,assemply footages and more. In addition, they also provide first-hand insight into industry protocol, providing tips on interviewing, etiquette, career planning and more, information you simply won't find in any other book. The book concludes with a chapter featuring Q+A sessions with various established Hollywood editors about what they expect from their assistant editors.

* Cutting insight and tested tipsfrom 2 established Hollywood editors (combined credits include Cesar Milan: Dog Whisperer, The Simple Life, The Shield, Dawson's Creek) will have you on the path to being a successful assistant editor in no time * Includes discussions with some of the top editors in the industry, sharing their views on what they expect from their assistants in the editing suite * Offers technical info such as the intricacies of digitizing and breaking down a script, as well as practical knowledge on topics like interview preparation and industry ettiquette

"A thorough guide to becoming an indispensable assistant editor."- Alan Heim, Vice President, A.C.E.; Professional film editor (Network, Grey Gardens, American History X, Alpha Dog)

"Make the Cut explains the postproduction editing workflow with utmost clarity and illustrates with abundant examples. Priceless! The book reflects a great depth of knowledge, that clearly has come from years of experience and accumulated wisdom. This book inspires excellence and will provide any aspiring editor with a huge leg up." -- Howard E. Smith, A.C.E.; Professional film editor (Snakes on a Plane, Glengarry Glen Ross, The Abyss)

"This is terrific preparation for anyone who wants to be an assistant editor. I teach editing at USC and I will certainly have this on my class' reading list. I will also give it to anyone I hire as an assistant." --Tina Hirsch, A.C.E.