Why do film editors win Oscars?

Clients often ask, “What does a film editor do that’s so special if all the shots are planned? Just arrange them according to the script, and that’s it!”

We show them an example from the editing of the series “Severance.”

Not all shots are filmed exactly as planned. On set, multiple versions may be shot from different angles.

The editor then selects the shots that best fit the atmosphere and story.

For example, at 2:16, the character says, “I need to get out of here.” In the rough cut, this is shown in a close-up of the character and his companion.

But we don’t feel the problem—they don’t seem to be trapped.

At 2:41, the editor switches to a shot taken over the shoulder of the orchestra. Now, we see that the characters are surrounded, and the line feels completely different.

Editors win awards for choosing the right shots, creating the right atmosphere, and keeping the story visually consistent.

What did you think of the ending of season two? Amazing or confusing?

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