Industry Buzz
Avid's presence across the media production industries is so vast that filmmakers, broadcasters, recording engineers, game developers, effects artists, and other media professionals often wonder how they ever managed to get their work done in the days before Avid pioneered the concept of using a computer to digitally manipulate film, video, audio, and 3D animation. That spirit of innovation continues to this day, with increasingly powerful, integrated solutions that reflect Avid's dedication to quality, and its longstanding commitment to empowering the creativity behind the world's most widely recognized media. Learn what the top industry organizations and publications are saying about Avid.
The "Avid/FCP 2-Step" - LAFCPUG Presents Media Composer 4.0, This Week - 11/17/2009
Most may have read Steve Cohen's post about the upcoming LAFCPUG event and his Media Composer session by now (slated highlights include Transition Preservation, Advanced Keyframe and trim mode), so here are a few words from one of the other presenters - Editor Shane Ross - on Wednesday evening's theme - the Avid/FCP 2-step:
"That is what it boils down to for me. Media Composer does a lot for you, freeing you to think more about the creative, less about the technical...the nuts and bolts of things. FCP requires that you pay attention to what you are doing technically, and to where you store your footage. You have to be organized on two levels, on the finder and in the application. A lot of people like that...I am one of them. But I also really like how Media Composer allows you to just import and go. Because a majority of creative editors don't want to have to think this much about organization, and they shouldn't have to." - Shane Ross of Little Frog in High Def
Shane will be covering new features within Media Composer 4.0 during what is sure to be an interesting evening leading up to Walter Murch's presentation.
While the event is now sold out, both Shane and Steve maintain their respective blogs (Little Frog in High Def and Splice Here), so if I had to guess, they'll likely recap the event to some extent on those sites for those who can't make it. Here are the links:
- Steve Cohen, Splice Here
- Shane Ross, Little Frog in High Def
The events will also be available from the Open Television Network for a minimal cost (between $.50 and $.99).
LAFCPUG Presents Walter Murch 'Back on Avid' + MC Sessions by Steve Cohen, Shane Ross - 11/12/2009
The next LAFCPUG is jam-packed with - AVID - sessions. Yes, you read that correctly.
Founder and head of lafcpug, Michael Horton, says, "Avid Media Composer is still firmly entrenched in Hollywood feature films and broadcast television. In order for you to compete in Hollywood it's important to know both tools."
So, attention all Final Cut Pro (and Media Composer) users - you won't want to miss this evening and its compelling look at Avid in the industry! The agenda includes:
Walter Murch - "What it's like going from Avid to FCP and back to Avid"
Shane Ross (of Little Frog in High Def) - "Avid Media Composer 4.0, Avid Media Access"
Steve Cohen (of Splice Here) - "What's New in Media Composer 4.0"
ALSO, Media Composer 4.0 software will be given away as part of the 'world famous raffle!'
The event is open, but requires registration to attend: http://www.lafcpug.org/user_schedule.html.
Wednesday, Nov. 18 @ the Gallery Theatre in Hollywood, Ca. Event begins at 6:45 PM
If you're in the LA area, this is a don't miss!
Student Graduate Touts Value of Hands-on Experience with Media Composer - 10/27/2009
Meghan Lisson, a Syracuse University student from the ABC News On Campus program's inaugural year, landed a job at NBC after graduation -
"Working in college as part of ABC's student program and with industry standard solutions like Media Composer gave me the edge I needed to score a network job in a tough economy. My newsroom skills with Media Composer not only set me apart from the competition, but gave me a major leg up in the professional world. With each successive sequence I cut, and each package I produced as part of ABC News On Campus, I was able to further hone my skills and streamline my understanding of broadcast workflows. So often you can be limited by your tools when on a tight deadline; having top-of-the-line, professional and portable Media Composer software allowed me to craft pieces I was proud of every single time."
Editor David Maurer Weighs In... "Top Ten Reasons Avid Beats Final Cut Pro" - 10/15/2009
Check it out! Editor David Maurer (Splinter, Four Sheets to the Wind, 'The Apprentice,' 'American Idol') created a top 10 list earlier this week of what rocks about Media Composer (vs. FCP) after checking out the latest 4.0 version.
The list includes features like AMA, mix and match, pricing (yes, it's there), ScriptSync, 3D, among others... Read the full list over at FlickGym.com! And you can follow Maurer on Twitter as well.
IBC Twitter - Media Composer 4.0 Winners Announced! - 9/24/2009
Thanks to all those who 'retweeted' Avid's IBC 2009 news. It's great to see the excitement around the new products and we look forward to hearing your feedback on Media Composer 4.0. Here is a list of the winners:
Sept. 12 - http://twitter.com/mkavid
Sept. 13 - http://twitter.com/Oldskooljunkie
Sept. 14 - http://twitter.com/gbow48
Sept. 15 - http://twitter.com/avidcontestGlen
Congrats! And if your name doesn't appear above, but you'd like to check out the new features like mix and match for yourself, head over to Avid.com and download the trial version of MC 4.0.
Enter to win Avid Pinnacle Studio 14 Ultimate Collection software during Gen Cre8 Brooklyn!
Retweet @AvidTechnology and/or @GenCre8 related news and activity updates to enter a giveaway for Pinnacle software. Here’s how:
• Retweet @AvidTechnology and/or @GenCre8 event-related updates from your Twitter account. You must include the letters "RT" and the @AvidTechnology or @GenCre8 username in your retweet to be eligible.
• Three winners will be selected randomly from the list of everyone who retweets a relevant @AvidTechnology or @GEnCre8 post beginning Wednesday, Sept. 23 (1 p.m. EDT) through Thursday, Sept. 24 (12:00 a.m. EDT); the winner will receive Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Collection software.
Please see below for all contest details. Don't forget to follow Avid and GenCre8 on Twitter at Twitter.com/AvidTechnology and Twitter.com/GenCre8.
GENERAL INFORMATION: The sponsor of the Twitter Feed Contest (the "Contest") is Avid Technology, Inc.. ("Sponsor"), having its primary place of business at One Park West, Tewksbury, MA 01876 USA.
NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WINTHIS CONTEST IS VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. PARTICIPATION CONSTITUTES ENTRANT'S FULL AND UNCONDITIONAL AGREEMENT TO AND ACCEPTANCE OF THESE OFFICIAL RULES. THIS IS A TRADE PROMOTION ONLY, AND THE CONTEST IS OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES WHO ARE AGE 18 OR OVER AND WHO MEET THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS DETAILED IN THESE OFFICIAL RULES. The Contest begins Wednesday, Sept. 23 (1 p.m. EDT) through Thursday, Sept. 24 (12:00 a.m. EDT).
ELIGIBILITY: The Contest is offered to all U.S. citizens age 18 and over as of the date of entry. Employees, independent contractors, officers, and directors of Avid, its affiliates, subsidiaries, distributors, advertising, promotion and fulfillment agencies, and the immediate family members and persons living in the same household of such persons are not eligible to participate.
HOW TO ENTER: Eligible persons can participate by following Avid and Gen Cre8 on Twitter and 'retweeting' Avid and Gen Cre8 status updates as outlined. Enttrants’ Twitter accounts must have at least 50 followers, or must have been active for a minimum of 30 days prior to the contest opening.
In the event of a dispute, each potential winner may be required to provide proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the Twitter username associated with the potentially winning entry. The total number of eligible entries received determines odds of winning.
THE PRIZE: Three (3) people will be named the winner from the start of the contest. In total, three winners will be selected from those who submit 'retweets' in accordance with the contest guidelines and will receive Avid Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Collection software at a Recommended Retail Price of $129.99 USMSRP. No substitutions, alternatives or cash equivalents.
System specifications for the prize software can be found here: http://pinnaclesys.com/PublicSite/us/Products/Consumer+Products/Home+Video/Studio+Family/Studio+Ultimate+Collection+14.htm.
The winner will be notified by mail, e-mail, Twitter message, and/or telephone before or around September 30th, 2009. Conduct of the Contest and selection of the winner are in Sponsor's sole discretion, and Sponsor's decisions are final and binding. Sponsor will be the sole arbiter in any dispute. Prizes are non-transferable, non-saleable or exchangeable for cash or cash alternative. All local taxes related to the prizes awarded are the sole responsibility of the winner. No alternative prize, cash equivalent, or other substitution is permitted.
PRIVACY POLICY: Sponsor may use personal information submitted by participants in accordance with the terms of Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. Sponsor’s Privacy Policy may be viewed at Sponsor's website at http://www.avid.com/legal/index.html#privacy.
ADDITIONAL TERMS: Sponsor is not responsible for and shall not be liable for late, lost, misdirected or unsuccessful efforts to notify the winner. The winner may be required to sign and return a liability release, declaration or affidavit of eligibility, and, where lawful, publicity consent agreement, all within fifteen days of notice to the winner as a condition of receiving the prize. By accepting and/or using prize, the winner agrees to the use of the winner's name, voice, and/or likeness for the purpose of advertising, trade or promotion without further compensation, unless prohibited by law. If the selected winner cannot be contacted, is ineligible, fails to claim a prize, or fails to timely return completed and executed declaration/affidavit and releases as required, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected. By participating, entrants agree that Sponsor, its agents and representatives, and contest event entities are not responsible for and shall not be liable for:
1) electronic hardware or software program, network, Internet, or computer malfunctions, failure or difficulties of any kind;
2) failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmissions;
3) any condition caused by events beyond the control of Sponsor that may cause the Contest to be disrupted or corrupted;
4) any hardware compatibility problems; or
5) any printing or typographical errors in any materials associated with the Contest.
Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to suspend or cancel the Contest at any time if a computer virus, bug, or other technical problem corrupts the administration, security or proper play of the Contest.
RELEASE: By participating in the Contest, each entrant agrees to release and hold Sponsor, its shareholders, officers, agents and representatives and event entities harmless from any and all losses, damages, rights, claims and actions of any kind in connection with or resulting from participation in the Contest, acceptance possession or use of any prize, including without limitation property damage and claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
GOVERNING LAW: All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation, and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of participant and Sponsor in connection with the Contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts without regard to the conflict of laws rules that would cause the laws of any other jurisdiction to apply.
Enter to win Avid Media Composer 4.0 software during IBC 2009! - 9/11/2009
Retweet @AvidTechnology news and activity updates to enter a daily giveaway for Media Composer 4.0 software. Here’s how:
• Retweet @AvidTechnology product and show-related updates from your Twitter account. You must include the letters "RT" and the @AvidTechnology username in your retweet to be eligible.
• The Twitter user that has the highest number of 'retweets' each day, beginning Saturday, Sept. 12 through Tuesday, Sept. 15 (GMT +1), will receive Media Composer software.
Please see below for all contest details. Don't forget to follow Avid on Twitter at Twitter.com/AvidTechnology.
GENERAL INFORMATION: The sponsor of the Twitter Feed Contest (the "Contest") is Avid Technology. ("Sponsor"), having its primary place of business at One Park West, Tewksbury, MA. 01876 in the US.
NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN, AND NO OBLIGATION OF ANY KIND IS IMPLIED. THIS CONTEST IS VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. PARTICIPATION CONSTITUTES ENTRANT'S FULL AND UNCONDITIONAL AGREEMENT TO AND ACCEPTANCE OF THESE OFFICIAL RULES. THIS IS A TRADE PROMOTION ONLY, AND THE CONTEST IS OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION WHO ARE AGE 18 OR OVER AND WHO MEET THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS DETAILED IN THESE OFFICIAL RULES. The Contest begins on Saturday, September 12, 2009 and ends on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 (GMT +1).
ELIGIBILITY: The Contest is offered to all natural persons age 18 and over as of the date of entry and who are attending IBC 2009. Employees, independent contractors, officers, and directors of Avid, its affiliates, subsidiaries, distributors, advertising, promotion and fulfillment agencies, and the immediate family members and persons living in the same household of such persons are not eligible to participate.
HOW TO ENTER: Eligible persons can participate by following Avid on Twitter and 'retweeting' Avid status updates as outlined.
In the event of a dispute, each potential winner may be required to provide proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the Twitter username associated with the potentially winning entry. The total number of eligible entries received determines odds of winning.
THE PRIZE: One (1) person will be named the winner for each corresponding IBC Show day from the start of the contest (Saturday through Tuesday). In total, four winners will be selected from those who submit 'retweets' in accordance with the contest guidelines and will receive Media Composer® software v4.0 at a Recommended Retail Price of $2,495 USMSRP. No substitutions, alternatives or cash equivalents.
System requirements for the prize software can be found here: http://www.avid.com/products/Media-Composer-Software/system-requirements.asp.
The winner will be notified by mail, e-mail, Twitter message, and/or telephone before or around September 30th, 2009. Conduct of the Contest and selection of the winner are in Sponsor's sole discretion, and Sponsor's decisions are final and binding. Sponsor will be the sole arbiter in any dispute. Prizes are non-transferable, non-saleable or exchangeable for cash or cash alternative. All local taxes related to the prizes awarded are the sole responsibility of the winner. No alternative prize, cash equivalent, or other substitution is permitted.
PRIVACY POLICY: Sponsor may use personal information submitted by participants in a completed entry form in accordance with the terms of Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. Sponsor’s Privacy Policy may be viewed at Sponsor's website at http://www.avid.com/legal/index.html#privacy.
ADDITIONAL TERMS: Sponsor is not responsible for and shall not be liable for late, lost, misdirected or unsuccessful efforts to notify the winner. The winner may be required to sign and return a liability release, declaration or affidavit of eligibility, and, where lawful, a publicity consent agreement, all within fifteen days of notice to the winner as a condition of receiving the prize. By accepting and/or using prize, the winner agrees to the use of the winner's name, voice, and/or likeness for the purpose of advertising, trade or promotion without further compensation, unless prohibited by law. If the selected winner cannot be contacted, is ineligible, fails to claim a prize, or fails to timely return completed and executed declaration/affidavit and releases as required, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected. By participating, entrants agree that Sponsor, its agents and representatives, and contest event entities are not responsible for and shall not be liable for:
1) electronic hardware or software program, network, Internet, or computer malfunctions, failure or difficulties of any kind;
2) failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmissions;
3) any condition caused by events beyond the control of Sponsor that may cause the Contest to be disrupted or corrupted;
4) any hardware compatibility problems; or
5) any printing or typographical errors in any materials associated with the Contest.
Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to suspend or cancel the Contest at any time if a computer virus, bug, or other technical problem corrupts the administration, security or proper play of the Contest.
RELEASE: By participating in the Contest, each entrant agrees to release and hold Sponsor, its shareholders, officers, agents and representatives and event entities harmless from any and all losses, damages, rights, claims and actions of any kind in connection with or resulting from participation in the Contest, acceptance possession or use of any prize, including without limitation property damage and claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
GOVERNING LAW: All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation, and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of participant and Sponsor in connection with the Contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the England and Wales without regard to the conflict of laws rules that would cause the laws of any other jurisdiction to apply.
IBC kicks off tomorrow and attendees will find new product upgrades at the Avid booth! - 9/10/2009
There's something for each of you - whether you happen to be a broadcaster, post production professional or student! We announced new upgrades across the editors family (Media Composer 4.0, Symphony 4.0 and NewsCutter 8.0 software) as well as Avid's production asset management solution - Interplay 2.0. Here are a few helpful links and we'll see you on the show floor:
Avid Press Release
Editor Family, including Media Composer 4.0
Interplay 2.0
ABC, Avid Bring Real-world Newsroom Solutions to Students - 9/4/2009
This week ABC kicks off the second year of its ABC On Campus initiative - a program designed to provide students with hands-on experience creating and broadcasting news stories. Graduates from last year's program have since secured jobs at various station affiliates (of CBS, NBC, CNN and ABC) and are now working successfully in the broadcast field across the country, as reported by ABC.
The addition of a sixth college bureau and a fresh pool of aspiring newsroom professionals round out the group eager to access the same Avid industry solutions that the network uses.
ABC has all the news online about the 2009-2010 program. Plus, view student-generated stories to get a sneak peek behind these industry up-and-comers.
One week before IBC - 9/3/2009
We're getting ready to head to Amsterdam. Check out highlights and featured speakers on Avid at IBC online and stay tuned to the Buzz blog for more information as we get closer to the show. Hope to see you there!
Tracey Ullman's comedy show - Dissecting the RED workflow - 7/20/2009
Post Magazine has the latest scoop on the Tracey Ullman show's RED workflow. The creative team weighs in on all things post-related, including the reasons behind the switch to RED and how much time they are saving with the current workflow. Check it out online: "Workflow: 'Tracey Ullman's State of the Union'"
Listen Up! Big week for music lovers… - 5/13/2009
Last week was a big week for music lovers here at Avid with the introduction of new products geared towards pros, kids and everyone in between.
New releases include the M-Audio® DCP-300 digital home piano, equipped with audio inputs and USB connectivity so users can plug in an iPod or CD player for interactive practice with pre-recorded backing tracks; Groovy Music City, fun new software for kids aged 7 and up to learn and create their own music; and Digidesign® VENUE SC48, a compact digital console for use in small-to-mid sized live sound settings.
Avid also kicked off its 2009 Listen Up! World Tour. Upcoming stops include The Cutting Room on May 12 in NYC, South Beach Studios @ Marlin on May 19 in Miami, and Sanctum Studios on May 26 in Los Angeles. Register via the link above to learn new studio production techniques, get in-depth demos of new Avid products, meet top recording artists and interact with A-list engineers in a small, intimate group setting.
Chat with Slumdog Millionaire's Editor Chris Dickens - 2/19/2009
Join us after the Academy Awards next week to chat with Oscar nominee Chris Dickens (BAFTA and A.C.E. Eddie Winner, Film Editing). Chris will take questions from registered attendees, so don't miss your chance to participate in the 'live' online session. Here are the details -
When: Monday, February 23, 2009, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM PST / 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST
Anyone interested in joining can register online (pre-registration is required).
Billy Corgan creates Superbowl ad - 2/4/2009
Check out the national ad for Hyundai that aired during the Superbowl. Credit goes to Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins who created the spot with Avid Media Composer (which is also featured in the commercial).
Going to Park City for Sundance? - 1/16/2009
Check out the on-site presentation Avid is hosting today (Friday, January 16, 2:00 pm):
- File-based Formats: What Every Filmmaker Should Know - Industry experts will explore file-based workflows for independent filmmakers from acquisition to distribution, and demystify the variety of tapeless formats available today. Leave the session with some tips and tricks on how to optimize your workflow (shooting, ingest, edit, finish) to get your film ready for distribution and how cost-effective digital-cinema technology can help you get the job done.
Where: New Frontier on the Lower Level of the Main Street Mall. For more information, visit: http://festival.sundance.org/2009/
New Avid systems speed up reality for 10 Years Younger post production - 12/16/2008
Read about the transition to HD for TLC's 10 Years Younger show in TV Technology this month and learn the benefits of Avid DX systems, including performance that is '20 times faster than Adrenaline.'
"We have several layers of video going on: in the past we had to render them to see them. The ability of this system to play multiple layers without having to render is by far the biggest benefit." - Lori Szybist, Lead Editor
"Moreover, if you're in a screening and you want to change out an effect-a wipe, dissolve, whatever-it can be as simple as dragging the new effect on top of your clip and playing it right there." - Eric Rodriguez, Post Production Supervisor
Students respond to Avid PostDeko for Editors - 12/9/2008
Bradley University students react to Avid's latest announcement unveiling PostDeko for Editors. Check out their comments in the blog post: 'Avid Improves Graphics Workflow With PostDeko for Editors'
"The immediate attractive impact is that costs can be cut. So, in essence, if we learn to use the software, our resume just got a little bit stronger in the weakening economy. In addition, it is reassuring to see such press on programs that WE are using, right? Bradley is providing the proper training for our field. This program is a promising progression in the media world and will indubitably be implemented throughout the broadcast industry. Exciting stuff." - Daniel Shore, Bradley University
Avid brings video and audio communities together at REMIX Hotel Event L.A. - 12/5/2008
Avid is hosting a variety of panel presentations at the REMIX Hotel LA Event featuring the latest and greatest from the video and audio communities. Yesterday's line-up included speakers from Gossip Girl Editor Tim Good to seasoned Music Producer Daddy Kev.
Check out the REMIX agenda for a full list of Avid's exclusive sessions where artists talk about their craft, how they use our tools and share advice to aspiring artists.
Storage Video: Avid Unity - Working in the Real World - 12/2/2008
New video - Customers chime in about the benefits of Avid's shared storage solutions.
For more of the latest storage news, read: Broadcast Engineering 'Avid increases capacity of Unity ISIS system' and Sports Video Group 'Avid amps up Unity ISIS storage; supports up to 330 clients, 384TB of storage'.
WIRED Interview: DIY artists host student workshops; create viral Webisode content - 12/2/2008
WIRED spoke with Avid Editor Lenny Mesina about the Make Something! Webisodes which document a series of student filmmaking and artist workshops. You can read the article online - "Street artists launch DIY vid series"
Here is the full Q&A with Lenny Mesina (LM):
Did your students first go out and shoot the subject matter for their short films?
[LM] In keeping with the spirit of inspiration and true collaboration as seen in the film I edited Beautiful Losers, (which is how Make Something!! came about with Aaron Rose directing the film and then subsequently working with Nike Sportswear to create artist led D.I.Y. workshops for kids in NY, LA, SF, and Tokyo) the workshop I taught on editing was directly connected to three other workshops in NY and LA: (cinematographer of Beautiful Losers) Tobin Yelland's documentary interview workshop, (music composer of BL) Money Mark's class on creating musical scores for films, and (graphic designer for BL) Keith Scharwath's make merch workshop. Early on during the planning stages of the curriculums, Stefani Relles (our wonderful teacher who led the way for all of our classes), Aaron Rose, and I came up with the idea that it would be appropriate to incorporate Tobin's, Mark's, Keith's, and my workshops since we all worked together during the making of the film. What it basically came down to was; since Tobin was going to teach kids how to shoot doc style interviews, and Mark was going to teach his class how to create music for films, and Keith's class was about creating movie merchandise based on the subject matter from the interviews, why don't I use the end products from their respective classes to show my kids how it can all come together to create a sum bigger than it's parts. So the footage my kids ended up editing in Los Angeles was actually shot by kids on the streets of New York.
What kind of Avid equipment did they do the editing on?
[LM] Working closely with high school kids and teaching aspects of editing was definitely fun and ultra rewarding on a personal level, but I found that during the creation of the web series we really had a golden opportunity to inspire people on a much larger scale. And for me that started as the supervising editor of a team of up and coming editors. In working with Meg Decker, Siobhan Prior, and Sin-Halina Sy, we were able to speak the same language of editing using Avid Media Composer systems. Using Avid was really important to me because I wanted this team of editors to continue to work with the industry's leading tool, especially since the majority of professional work is still cut with Avid editing systems. I felt that the more time they had to work with a program as established as Avid, the better off they would be when they work on their own big jobs.
Why did you feel Avid systems were the best fit for this project?
[LM] First and foremost, the efficiency of Avid editing tools easily made it the system of choice. We had a constant flow of footage to bring in each time we wrapped a workshop shoot and we knew time was going to be a factor in the completion of this series. And since all of us were already fluent with Avid and its superior media management, it made no sense for us to use any other program, especially the clunkier ones that require multiple steps to do the simple tasks an Avid can do in one stroke. To me, efficiency is always the key to editing; the smoother the workflow the more time an editor has to concentrate on what's important and that's being a creative storyteller. And with the quick turnaround inherent in web-based projects, I knew using Avid systems would enable us to deliver the content Nike Sportswear expected and on deadline.
What makes editing a webisode different than a feature length film?
[LM] One of the major differences between editing this web series and a feature length film was just knowing that the final destination for these pieces was going to be on the internet. Working closely with Arlo Rosner and Jon Barlow, the director and producer of the series respectively, we came up with a model of how we wanted the pieces to be presented as a whole before we even began shooting. Knowing that our audiences were going to be online viewers meant that we would be editing each piece down to approximately three to four minutes, in a form that would maximize impact and at the same time be easily digestible for internet audiences. In a film like Beautiful Losers, we had the luxury of allowing scenes to play out longer and had more freedom to explore the nuances of each character which inevitably made the film so personal and intimate. That isn't to say these webisodes lack any of that personal intimacy, in fact the film and the web series have much in common in the end, but rather the medium directly dictated the approach during the editing process. Using Avid systems made the technical side of things transparent, which let us dedicate our time to fully engage the creative process.
Are there plans to continue this workshop approach or is it a one-shot deal?
[LM] I really hope the Make Something!! workshops can continue to live on, grow larger, and travel to different parts of the country and the world with new and different artists attached along the way. I believe we've created a blue print which can easily be followed for future workshops to happen wherever there are kids who are willing to be inspired and be creative.
Tell me about some of the projects you've worked on yourself as an editor.
[LM] My editing background comes from the world of music videos and commercials during a time when music videos were thriving both creatively and in quality. Having the good fortune to have learned from some of my editing heroes like Fernando Villena and Chris Hafner, and then working with directors such as Francis Lawrence, Meiert Avis, and Motion Theory, I feel like I was already set up to follow a path that would lead to more unconventional collaborations. I eventually started to work with creatives whose backgrounds didn't necessarily originate as film directors. Editing with musicians like Kanye West (Common "The Corner") and Tom DeLonge of Blink 182 (Taking Back Sunday "This Photograph Is Proof"), photographers Estevan Oriol (Blink 182 "Down") and Nylon Magazine's Marvin Scott Jarrett (Good Charlotte "Fast Future Generation"), to even actors Jared Leto (30 Seconds to Mars "The Kill") and Joaquin Phoenix ("Lydia"), all led me to the film of a lifetime, Beautiful Losers directed by Aaron Rose and Joshua Leonard. With Beautiful Losers not only did I get to edit a documentary that featured some of my favorite artists who I've looked up to over the years, but I was part of something that was much bigger than just a film. We were able to create something special that truly inspires people to go and make stuff, to go out and be inspired by the people you're with and your surroundings. And even in the way we made that movie was extremely special. We ended up renting a house out in Silver Lake and I had setup the Avid system in one little corner room and Money Mark setup shop in another room with his ProTools and all his instruments and keyboards, and we'd go back and forth working on scenes just handing off media to each other on a little zip drive or CD. Then I'd adjust the cuts to fit the new music and all of us, from directors and producers to our post coordinator from Brooklyn who lived in the house while we rented it, would just sit in the living room and watch what we came up with like a little family. The completion of the film and the successes we've shared from it eventually led to the Make Something!! workshops with Nike Sportswear, totally changing my way of thinking about how I can use editing as a tool for good. For example, I just recently cut a piece with local screen-printing shop Fresh Pressed prior to the election using Barack Obama's "Yes We Can" speech, Z-Trip's Obama mix, and Shepard Fairey's "Obama/Hope" wheat pasting to create a viral video which I did for free because I believed it to be for a good cause. Being able to inspire people on that level and to have a positive effect on people through editing, those are the things that made Beautiful Losers to me quite possibly the best project I've ever edited or maybe ever will edit.