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 gives a great insight into an area of filmmaking which is nearly always underrepresented. A fascinating deep dive into classic modern American Cinema. Deep technical descriptions of editing that preserves institutional knowledge and brings the sweaty edit room to life. If you’re interested in Star Wars there’s more than enough information in this book to make it Worth the read. A singular fascinating well written perspective on new wave Hollywood.

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This is a great book for those interested in the behind the scenes action, or if you're thinking of pursuing a career in editing.

Fascinating insight into Hollywood production

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Film editor has to be one of the most misunderstood jobs in movie making. For the longest time I thought it was just the person that put the bits together in the machine. It was years later before I understood their pivotal role in constructing the story, the atmosphere, creating the beats etc in a way possibly more profound than the director.

This book is an excellent read, covering a broad range of films and describes well the actual artistic processes, the thoughts, mindsets and even the politics that get wrapped up in it all. It was also interesting to discover more about the business side, financing, how people get involved in projects and why.

For any fan of film, this is a great read and highly recommended.

Excellent insights to a poorly understood role

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As a film editor, I loved this. A story of an interesting career over huge changes in technology.

An Editor’s Story

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I don’t know much about editing or the stuff behind “pictures” but the passion, the story and the narration really drew me in. There was a real humour and warmth to it and I’m pleased I picked this. If you’re looking to listen to something a bit different- give this a go.

A perfect listen

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