Thelma Schoonmaker & Scorsese — Film Editing Tips from Goodfellas, Shutter Island, and The Irishman

The editing process is described as a creative choice-making endeavor, where the editor collaborates closely with the director, Scorsese, to determine the focus of scenes through various shot types. Unlike the conventional belief that editing should be invisible, the editor embraces a more visceral approach, aiming to surprise and engage the audience with unexpected cuts. Their documentary background influences their style, favoring a rougher, more authentic feel over the polished aesthetics typical in Hollywood. They intentionally incorporate jarring cuts to enhance the emotional impact of scenes, as seen in 'Goodfellas' and 'Shutter Island', where abrupt transitions reflect the characters' psychological states. The editor emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of actors' performances, even if it means using unconventional techniques like jump cuts, which can create a more powerful narrative experience. Ultimately, the collaboration with Scorsese is portrayed as a rewarding yet challenging process, requiring discipline and a commitment to serving the film's vision.