Cut to the Chase: Forty-Five Years of Editing America's Favourite Movies

by Sam O'Steen, Bobbie O'Steen (As told by)

This groundbreaking book takes the reader behind the closed doors of the editing room where Sam O'Steen along with some of the world's top directors controlled the fate of many legendary films. Editors don't usually sit on movie sets, but Sam was there through the entire shoot and his editing tales are spiced with juicy anecdotes about exotic locations and colorful producers, directors, and stars.

Genres: Film, Nonfiction, Memoir

300 pages, Paperback

First published January 25, 2002

Reviews

[Franzeska · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's an interesting look into celebrity gossip from an editor's perspective. Sam O'Steen was one of the finest film editors ever, but his book is mainly about telling off-color anecdotes about actresses and defending Roman Polanski. "I hope he clears his name one day." Uh huh, buddy.

You won't learn anything about editing from this book. You'll learn plenty about sexist men in Hollywood.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

An insightful look at film editing, as told by one of the industry’s all-time legends. This book details the creative process behind many of Hollywood’s landmark movies while providing first-hand accounts of stories behind the scenes. He tells of working closely with Mike Nichols, Roman Polanski, and many others - sharing tales told nowhere else. Many of O’Steen’s attitudes and views are old-school and often misogynistic, reflecting the 1960s and ‘70s. Despite those personal pitfalls, readers can learn many editing tips and techniques still relevant to contemporary filmmaking. A recommended read for all film editors and movie historians.

[Stephen Hull · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memoirs of one of the most influential and successful film editors of the last half of the 20th century. A combination of insights into editing and gossip about famous folk in the film industry which some people will find irresistible. I’m one of them.

[Emon Hassan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book on editing. The stories behind some of the great films are fascinating!