Cutting Rhythms: Creative Film Editing

by Karen Pearlman

There are many books on the technical aspects of film and video editing. Much rarer are books on how editors think and make creative decisions. Filled with timeless principles and thought-provoking examples from a variety of international films, the third edition of Karen Pearlman’s 'Cutting Rhythms' offers an in-depth study of the film editor’s rhythmic creativity and expertise, the processes and tools editors use to shape rhythms, and how rhythm works to engage audiences in film. Cutting Rhythms is written for students, editors and filmmakers who are learning their craft, and more experienced practitioners who enjoy engaging with ideas about creative process.

This fully revised and updated edition

· A comprehensive definition of what rhythm in film editing is made from, how it is shaped and what it is for

· Updated discussions of editor’s creative expertise and how to develop it.

· Tips on how to create and sustain audience empathy and engagement.

· Insights into style and creative collaboration

· Advice on making onscreen drafts before finalizing your story.

· Comprehensively updated international examples.

246 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2025

Reviews

[Teddy Hazelden · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone just coming into editing, this was an extremely helpful guide to start out with. Chapter 11 also gave me the best laugh while being one of the most helpful parts of the book