Where are you currently employed?
I’m a freelance assistant editor, currently working on a Fox film.
Current Project?
It’s a feature film called The Darkest Minds, directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson and edited by Maryann Brandon
Describe Your Job.
My job is to make my editor happy. Sometimes it means doing temp sound work, and sometimes it means getting her oatmeal. These days ,it mostly involves turning reels over to various departments, compressing “same as source” QuickTimes, making scrambled eggs — basic assistant editor tasks!
How did you first become interested in this line of work?
I’ve always been obsessed with movies, so I kind of always fantasized about working in the film industry. I realized editing was my favorite part of the filmmaking process in college when I was working on a short documentary for a class. There was nothing more exhilarating than getting super cracked out on coffee the night before a screening, and trying to solve all the footage problems I had. It was an emotional roller coaster.
Who gave you your first break?
Editor Dody Dorn, by way of Dorian Harris and post-production assistant Diana Lieb. I am forever indebted to these three amazing people. They welcomed me into this industry and have helped me navigate through it.
What was your first union job?
My first union job was assisting on Tully, a feature directed by Jason Reitman and edited by Stefan Grube.
Which of your credits or projects have made you the most proud and why?
Star Wars: The Force Awakens! Because I’m a huge fan, working on that and interacting with so many talented people and real film legends was pretty amazing.
What was your biggest challenge in your job (or on a particular project) and how did you overcome/solve it?
Every job I’ve been on has presented some kind of big challenge — from having to get too many lunches to having to do too many turnovers. What keeps me sane during those difficult moments is knowing how lucky I am to be there and knowing that every challenge helps me grow.
What was the most fun you’ve had at work?
The most fun I always have is getting a cut ready right before a big screening — staying super late in editorial with amazing people, getting slap-happy, and acting a fool because you have whatever facility you’re working in to yourself. Also fun is immediately after a big screening. Depending on who you’ve been working with in the cutting room, it could involve a lot of alcohol and climbing things you shouldn’t.
Jobwise, what do you hope to be doing five years from now?
I don’t have a specific goal set. All I know is that I’m happy doing what I do right now, and I hope that in five years I’ll still be happy.
What are your outside activities, hobbies, passions?
I like listening to music, I like group texting my friends, and I like watching football, ie, soccer. I also like exercising sometimes and I like Googling pictures of Tom Hardy.
Favorite movie(s)? Why?
Two-Lane Blacktop, Apocalypse Now, La Haine, Pierrot le Fou and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. Those are the ones that popped into my head, but my favorites change all the time. Why are they my favorites at the moment? I just really love them — the way they look, the way they sound, the way they make me feel, everything. They’re perfect films.
Favorite TV program(s)? Why?
I love Curb Your Enthusiasm. It’s pretty, pretty, pretty good. Growing up, I really loved America’s Funniest Videos, and the funny seasons of The Simpsons. I also really loved Cheaters, especially the episode where Joey Greco gets stabbed; real savage stuff.
Do you have an industry mentor?
Yes. So many people I’ve worked with and for have been there for me. They have given me great advice, and have checked in to see how I’m doing. I’ve been very lucky in that regard.
What advice would you offer to someone interested in pursuing your line of work?
Work really hard and be nice.
Was there ever a circumstance when you had to rely on the Guild for help or assistance?
Yes. On my first union job, I got hired but was not yet officially on the industry roster. The Guild really helped me by telling me who I had to call to make sure I was on the roster in time to start that first job.Thanks!
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fellow Guild members, some words of encouragement?
Hire more people of color and women. We’re out here.
Compiled by Edward Landler
Editor’s Note: To recommend a member (including yourself) to be featured on the home page of the Editors Guild website, contact edlandler@roadrunner.com
