Summary

In "In the Blink of an Eye," Walter Murch, a renowned film editor and sound designer, delves into the art, craft, and psychology of film editing. Drawing from his extensive experience on iconic films like "Apocalypse Now," "The Godfather" trilogy, and "The English Patient," Murch presents a comprehensive exploration of what makes a cut work, why certain edits resonate with audiences, and how editing influences the emotional and narrative power of cinema. The book transcends a mere technical manual, offering profound insights into the relationship between film editing and human perception.

Murch elucidates his "Rule of Six," a hierarchy of criteria for effective cuts, prioritizing emotion, story advancement, rhythm, eye-trace, planarity, and spatial continuity. He emphasizes that emotion should be paramount, suggesting that a cut's success hinges on its ability to evoke the desired feeling in the audience. He argues that if a cut is emotionally resonant and advances the story, viewers are more likely to overlook technical imperfections. Murch explores the concept of misdirection, comparing the editor's role to that of a magician, guiding the audience's attention and manipulating their perceptions to enhance the viewing experience.

The book delves into the mechanics of editing, comparing the Moviola and KEM systems, and exploring the digital revolution that transformed the editing landscape. Murch reflects on his transition from mechanical to digital editing during the production of "The English Patient," sharing his initial reservations and eventual embrace of the new technology. He discusses the advantages and disadvantages of digital editing, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between technical proficiency and artistic intuition. He analyzes the subtle aspects of film editing and compares it to dreaming, and breaks down the blinks of an eye, in an attempt to further explain the reasons why cuts work in film.

Murch emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking, highlighting the vital role of the editor in shaping the final product. He also discusses the collaborative relationship of the editor and the director as one of the most essential ones to get right. He explores the significance of test screenings and audience feedback, cautioning against literal interpretations and emphasizing the importance of identifying the underlying causes of audience reactions. In conclusion, "In the Blink of an Eye" provides a thought-provoking and insightful examination of film editing, offering a unique perspective on the art, psychology, and technology of this crucial cinematic craft.