In this episode, I sit down with Ernie Gilbert, a Grammy-winning editor and director known for his work on Childish Gambino’s This Is America, Beyoncé’s Renaissance, and A24’s latest film Opus. Ernie shares his journey from touring with bands and directing music videos to breaking into Hollywood as an editor and filmmaker. We dive into his experience working on major projects, the creative challenges of editing, and what it’s like premiering a film at Sundance.
Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a music video fanatic, or just love behind-the-scenes stories from the industry, this episode is packed with insights on building a career in film, taking creative risks, and navigating the highs and lows of success. Don't miss this deep dive into Ernie’s journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way!
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Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome to Sundance Film Festival
00:11 - Introducing Ernie Gilbert
00:27 - Ernie’s Grammy Win and Filmmaking Journey
00:46 - Working on Beyoncé’s *Renaissance* Film
01:24 - Ernie’s Background in Editing & Directing
02:23 - The Struggle with Taking Compliments
03:10 - The Surreal Nature of Success
04:29 - Finding the Best Shots in Post-Production
06:25 - Editing A24’s *Opus* and Premiere at Sundance
07:45 - How Ernie Got Started in Filmmaking
09:11 - From Political Aspirations to Filmmaking Passion
10:58 - Early Music Video Work & Touring with Bands
13:15 - Working with Bayside & Touring Insights
15:12 - Moving to L.A. & Breaking into the Industry
16:26 - Balancing Night Jobs with Creative Work
18:43 - Breaking into Union Editing
20:18 - Transitioning from Reality TV to Narrative Work
22:13 - The Importance of Building a Network
24:31 - Learning from Showrunners and Editors
27:43 - Emotional Intelligence in Filmmaking
30:26 - Balancing Multiple Creative Paths
32:57 - The Rise of Multi-Skilled Filmmakers
35:36 - The Leap to Lead Editor & *This Is America*
37:51 - Behind the Editing of *This Is America*
40:36 - The Importance of Taking Career Risks
42:17 - Reflecting on Career Milestones
44:06 - Working with Bo Burnham & Jerrod Carmichael
46:24 - First Feature Film *On the Count of Three*
48:45 - Self-Funded Short Films and Creative Risks
50:30 - Ernie’s Experience with Sundance & Indie Filmmaking
52:10 - The Evolution of Filmmaking in the Digital Age
54:20 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers & Editors
56:05 - How to Find Your Unique Voice as a Creator
58:12 - Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts
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