Bulletproof Screenwriting™ Podcast

BPS 425: The Power of the Cut: Storytelling Secrets from Michael Trent

8 snips
Jun 26, 2025
Michael Trent, a seasoned film editor renowned for his work on classics like Saving Private Ryan, shares his journey from the UK to Hollywood. He discusses the artistry of editing, emphasizing how it shapes audience emotions through rhythm and tension. Trent reveals how his early experiences and family influence honed his craft, and he offers insights into the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The conversation also explores unique editing techniques in genres like horror, showcasing how timing and shot selection create unforgettable cinematic moments.
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ANECDOTE

Breaking In By Cold Calling

  • Michael Trent moved from England to the US in 1994 with no jobs lined up and cold called famous editors.
  • He was lucky Peter Hones hired him due to their prior connection in England, which jumpstarted his US career.
ANECDOTE

Editing Saving Private Ryan's Challenge

  • Working on Saving Private Ryan involved editing in unusual locations like a field in Ireland and an aerospace museum in England.
  • Spielberg’s skill to visualize editing changes remotely impressed Michael Trent deeply.
INSIGHT

Spielberg's Mental Edit Visualization

  • Spielberg can visualize edits fully in his mind even when remote, directing complex changes precisely.
  • This mental visualization inspires editors like Michael Trent to imagine edits internally before making them.
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