Kali Kahn on Editing 'After This Death' in Premiere Pro
The Creative Journey of a Unique Narrative
When Elliot abruptly disappears after their dangerous dance of longing and attraction, Isabel is forced to confront the haunting aftershocks of their vanished love. This emotional journey is brought to life through the meticulous work of editor Kali Kahn, who used Adobe Premiere Pro to craft a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.
Kahn's approach to editing was shaped by her self-taught background in 2018 when she began experimenting with her own short films and those of her friends. She found that Adobe Premiere Pro was an intuitive platform that allowed her to explore different storytelling techniques and media. One of the key tools she relied on was the Essential Sound Panel, which played a critical role in shaping the film’s unique tone and feel.
Learning the Art of Editing
Kahn credits her early experiences in editing as the foundation for her career. She taught herself how to edit using Adobe Premiere Pro, drawing from her passion for filmmaking. Many editors have similar stories, as the software's user-friendly interface makes it accessible for those who want to learn on their own. For Kahn, the platform felt like the NLE system of the people because it worked in harmony with her creative process rather than against it.
Setting Up for Success
When starting a new project, Kahn emphasizes the importance of understanding the director's vision. She begins by re-reading the script multiple times to fully grasp the director’s intentions. She often references the words of David Lynch, who said, “My intuition throws the ball and my rationality is the dog that retrieves it.” This philosophy encapsulates the dynamic relationship between directors and editors, where intuition and logic work together to shape the final product.
For "After This Death," Kahn took a unique approach by jotting down every thought that came to her while watching the footage for the first time. This document became a valuable resource throughout the editing process, helping her stay grounded when faced with complex scenes.
A Memorable Scene
One of the standout moments in the film is the scene where Isabel reunites with Elliot in the green room of a concert venue. This scene showcases the collaborative efforts of various departments, including production design, cinematography, and sound design. Kahn particularly highlights the sound design in this scene, which adds texture and dynamism to the visual elements. She also acknowledges the contributions of Rob Lombardo and Yegang Yoo, who created the band’s original music.
This scene posed significant challenges due to the condensed action and multiple dramatic threads. To navigate these complexities, Kahn collaborated with Julia Bloch, a consulting editor known for her work on a film set entirely in a green room. Their teamwork ensured that the scene remained cohesive and impactful.
Overcoming Post-Production Challenges
The nonlinear structure of the film presented unique post-production challenges. Kahn and director Lucio Castro experimented with different structures until they found the right one. They used an animatic approach, creating digital notecards that could be scrubbed through to visualize potential changes. Adobe Premiere Pro’s drag-and-drop workflow and flexibility with various media formats proved invaluable during this process, allowing for extensive trial and error.
Choosing the Right Tools
Kahn relies heavily on the Essential Sound Panel, which she considers indispensable. While some believe that an edit should work with or without sound, she argues that sound can either save or ruin a scene. It is what elevates an edit from being merely functional to something that resonates emotionally. The panel’s dropdown presets provided her with the autonomy to experiment with the film’s rich sonic elements, including the band’s music, original score, and autumnal landscapes.
Inspiration and Influence
Kahn draws inspiration from Joe Bini, whom she considers her editing hero. His expertise in story structure has influenced her approach to editing. She often revisits his films and rewatching his BFI masterclass when she needs guidance. Bini’s quote about long for a reunion with ideas resonates with her, as she believes that editing is about staying curious and open to what the movie wants to become, rather than imposing preconceived notions.
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