The two people I consider my left and right arms in the directing process will be the director of photography and the post-production editor. Their effective collaboration ensures my ideas come through. While the “director” gets most of the spotlight (unfortunately, imho), often the video editor gets the least credit next to the DOP.
The DOP translates my mise-en-scene. The editor layers the images based on the narrative. (There are however the ‘glorified’ cameramen and indifferent button pushers but that’s for another post).
You develop many genuine relationships in the production process. I have my firm directions. I also give the DOP and video editor some breathing space. No one is more creative than another. We have our own skills and tastes. As much as they look up to me for guidance, there are moments when I hit the wall and they are there to support me with my vision. This is where you build relationships - your creative social capital.
I have worked with editors who overlooked the mise-en-scene and devalue actor’s performance. I have also worked with ones that chose the ego over collaboration. I appreciate the handful gems that truly “see” the shots and work around with these images that, when put together, create deeper layers. Editing is laborious. It is also an intimate process.
On that note, one of the best hands in the industry will not be spinning his magic behind the editing console together with me anymore - at least locally. One that had a hand in creating some of my best work the last few years. I am honoured that his final work in Singapore is with my upcoming film project.
Thank you Perri for your magic. Can’t wait to present this soon. 🤜🏽🤛🏽
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| Perri and I on his last day of editing the film, Pulang Balik. The project also marked his last project in Singapore. |
