A Long Time Ago, in a Cutting Room Far, Far Away cover art

A Long Time Ago, in a Cutting Room Far, Far Away

My Fifty Years Editing Hollywood Hits - Star Wars, Carrie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Mission: Impossible, and More

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A Long Time Ago, in a Cutting Room Far, Far Away

By: Paul Hirsch
Narrated by: Richard Ferrone
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About this listen

A Long Time Ago in a Cutting Room Far, Far Away is a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most influential films of the last 50 years by Paul Hirsch, a film editor who worked on more than 40 features.

Starting with his work on Carrie, Hirsch gives insight into the production process, touching upon casting, directing, cutting, and scoring. It’s a riveting look at the decisions that went into creating memorable and iconic scenes and offers fascinating portraits of filmmakers, stars, and composers.

Part film-school primer, part paean to legendary directors and professionals, the funny yet insightful writing will entertain and inform aficionados and casual moviegoers alike.

©2019 Paul Hirsch (P)2019 Blackstone Publishing Art Entertainment & Celebrities Entertainment & Performing Arts Film & TV Celebrity Entertainment Funny
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This book is both informative and insightful. Covering the realities of the editing process and how it shapes a film, along with intriguing insights from Hirsch, as he was up close with famous filmmakers making many big hits and some notable misses. It may seem dry at first as you work out the author’s perspective, but it’s definitely worth sticking with it as it becomes progressively more and more riveting. I’m off to rewatch the films covered. First up is Blow Out, with its scenes weaving the analog film and sound gear in with the drama.

Great for film fans, not too technical

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Great recollections from so many classic films it is indispensable for any budding film editor or film fan.
Hirsch's professional stories, narrative and cutting advice are all spot-on and regardless of whether you cut film in the 1970s or the 2020s it is relevant and insightful.
I've been cutting TV ads and TV programs for 25 years and Hirsch provided insights new to me or reaffirmed my own impressions of working in this fun but challenging business.

Fantastic tales from the edit suite of a true pro!

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Some great stories, practical advice for filmmakers and editors in particular and well delivered by the narrator.

I bumped it to 1.2x speed and found that was perfect cadence.

Highly recommend to anyone interested in “how it used to be done” or just the film post production process in general.

Great listening!

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Loved the book. If you're into film making and want to know how a movie editor can bring a movie to life. This is the book for you. I have learnt a lot about Paul Hirsch! Sir, you are now one of my heroes.
The narration is on point as well.

Great book about movie editors life!

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As a small time editor myself I found this book riveting. Paul’s stories are vivid and lovingly recalled - bringing to life the many directors, actors, producers, and fellow editors he worked shoulder-to-shoulder with on some of the biggest movies of the past 40+ years. But most importantly for me, Paul shares how he edits, and in turn has written a ‘how to be a great editor’ guide without ever once making it feel like a lesson.
Paul taught me what it means to be an editor, and as Paul would say ‘for this, I am truly grateful.’

Must listen for editors

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