A film editor is someone who is responsible for bringing an entire film together. They essentially work on a raw footage of the film, editing and piecing together the film in chronological order. But their job goes well beyond just ‘editing’. They have to work in close conjunction with the film director and other departments, to gain a better understanding of the style the film has to follow, and to bring the collective vision to life.
The film editors need to be updated and well versed with the ever-changing technologies that have also changed the way films are being made to some extent. They will need to have a strong background in the film industry, the broadcasting industry, and a complete understanding of computer sciences. However, film editors aren’t just restricted to the movies, ads, documentaries or web series are the other niches that they find work in. But their real challenge is combing through hours or even days of footage, and make it immersive an enjoyable to watch in the given time period.
For example, if there was a mistake made when shooting a particular sequence, a film editor should know how to conceal that particular mistake from the audience. If a scene in the film needs or be heartbreaking or horrifying, the editor must know exactly what sound effects or arrangement of shots have to be made to build up the excitement around the scene. Even before you begin a project, you will need a thorough understanding of the script itself. This includes understanding the characters involved, the setting of a scene, and the emotions associated with that particular scene.
However, being a film editor comes with a heavy price tag. The courses may be expensive, and even after the completion of your course, it might be a while till you get your break. But one of the most important components to shape your film editing career is to keep practising. Master your craft on multiple software available in the market, it will show your versatility and flexibility. Try your hand at making a couple of short films in your spare time. Intern under some renowned editors or production companies and build a strong portfolio, and work your way up till you are your own boss. A large number of film editors these days are freelancers. Most importantly, build a rapport with fellow film editors, and directors – get them to trust in you and your work, while also taking a lesson or two from them.
Based on course structure, academic accreditation, student reviews, employment opportunities and campus infrastructure, here are some leading film schools in the world –
- American Film School, Los Angeles
- New York Film Academy, New York
- USC School of Cinematic Arts, Los Angeles
- La Fémis, Paris
- National Film and Television School, London
- Sydney Film School, Australia
- Beijing Film Academy, China
India
- Whistling Woods International, Mumbai
- Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida
- Film and Television Institute of India, Pune
- Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, Kolkata
- Chennai Film School, Chennai
