We're nearly done with the assembly edit of our indie sci-fi feature, In-World War. As we've started the editing process, our great editor, Sharon Franklin, has helped me understand the different milestones during editing.
If you're confused on the difference between assembly edit, rough cut, fine cut and picture lock -- this glossary might be helpful.
Assembly edit
This is the first stage of the editing process. The footage from your shoot is organized into scenes (usually be an assistant editor). Then, all scenes are assembled roughly,
with the editor's choice on takes. No music or effects are included.
Rough cut
The editor replaces takes as needed, based on the director's notes. The assembled film is reviewed and scenes/dialogue
removed in order to get the film to an appropriate length, based on what
works and doesn't work. Pickups are added, as well as music and
story-critical sound effects. If time allows, editor may make another
pass at addressing notes.
At this stage (before
beginning fine cut), the Asst. Editor or someone should check to make
sure all the sync sound is in correctly and synched. It's not uncommon (particularly with the RED, which we used for 80% of the film) for sound being recorded at the wrong rate so it slips out of synch, particularly for longer takes.
For In-World War, we expect new footage from pick-ups will come in through-out
the rough and fine cut process.
Fine cut
Another round of director's notes are addressed. If you need visual effects, you begin farming out effects and adding in
rough versions of effects shots as they come in. Finalize music (make
sure you're working with music that has been cleared or is possible to
clear). You might screen for friends to get feedback. Overall, you eliminate any other
extraneous scenes or lines of dialogue and fix anything else that isn't
working.
Now is the time to record any remaining ADR (re-recorded dialog)
before beginning pic lock.
Pic lock
As Sharon says: "here is where the frame
f*cking begins. :-)"
We work to get the film as tight as possible, going over it with a fine-tooth comb. All effects are finalized and incorporated into the cut. Additional sound work is done, as necessary. Director and editor will be working closely together to make sure all notes are addressed and the director is happy with the film.
How long does it take?
It really depends on how much footage you have, how long the piece is and how much time you can afford. For our feature, we're assuming about three weeks each for assembly and rough cut phases, and then another six weeks total for the last two phases (fine cut and pic lock).
However, since we have so many effects shots (about 100 -- it's a sci-fi film after all), this editing time will be spread out over the next year (or so) as the FX work is done, rather than sequentially.
Want to help us get done quicker? Feel free to help us out with a donation. Every dollar helps us get closer to the finish line.
If you're curious, find out why it took so long for us to get into editing on In-World War.