Editing Theory & Aesthetics

This class introduces students to film and video editing with a focus on aesthetics, rhythm, and making creative choices, as opposed to technical editing training seen in other post-production classes. Editing can seemingly manipulate time and space, transforming the audience’s experience. Because of this power, editors need to be clear about the purpose of the scene, project, and work.

This project-based course will discuss the creative process of editing. Analysis and screenings of excerpts from selected films will be used to explore the strategies and techniques used by editors to create connections between images. Students will apply knowledge and concepts gained hands-on in their own projects and have the chance for feedback from an industry editor + filmmaker.

Topics covered:

• Exploring the history of film and video editing
• Controlling what the audience sees
• Identifying the logline
• Performing script and scene analysis
• Coming up with an editing plan
• Cutting from on-camera to off-camera action
• Understanding the value of recutting
• Shaping moments with music
• Working in a specific genre
• Mixing editing styles together

This course is designed for students who are interested in diving deeper into editing and post-production. You must be comfortable with the editing platform of your choice as this course is focuses on aesthetics & theory behind editing rather than the technical aspects of the software. It is recommended that you have either taken editing courses at Austin School of Film or have an equivalent skillset.