Ernie Gilbert: Breaking Into Hollywood Through Editing & Directing

In this episode, I sit down with Ernie Gilbert, a Grammy-winning editor and director known for his work on Childish Gambino’s This Is America, Beyoncé’s Renaissance, and A24’s latest film Opus. Ernie shares his journey from touring with bands and directing music videos to breaking into Hollywood as an editor and filmmaker. We dive into his experience working on major projects, the creative challenges of editing, and what it’s like premiering a film at Sundance.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a music video fanatic, or just love behind-the-scenes stories from the industry, this episode is packed with insights on building a career in film, taking creative risks, and navigating the highs and lows of success. Don't miss this deep dive into Ernie’s journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way!

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to Sundance Film Festival

00:11 - Introducing Ernie Gilbert

00:27 - Ernie’s Grammy Win and Filmmaking Journey

00:46 - Working on Beyoncé’s *Renaissance* Film

01:24 - Ernie’s Background in Editing & Directing

02:23 - The Struggle with Taking Compliments

03:10 - The Surreal Nature of Success

04:29 - Finding the Best Shots in Post-Production

06:25 - Editing A24’s *Opus* and Premiere at Sundance

07:45 - How Ernie Got Started in Filmmaking

09:11 - From Political Aspirations to Filmmaking Passion

10:58 - Early Music Video Work & Touring with Bands

13:15 - Working with Bayside & Touring Insights

15:12 - Moving to L.A. & Breaking into the Industry

16:26 - Balancing Night Jobs with Creative Work

18:43 - Breaking into Union Editing

20:18 - Transitioning from Reality TV to Narrative Work

22:13 - The Importance of Building a Network

24:31 - Learning from Showrunners and Editors

27:43 - Emotional Intelligence in Filmmaking

30:26 - Balancing Multiple Creative Paths

32:57 - The Rise of Multi-Skilled Filmmakers

35:36 - The Leap to Lead Editor & *This Is America*

37:51 - Behind the Editing of *This Is America*

40:36 - The Importance of Taking Career Risks

42:17 - Reflecting on Career Milestones

44:06 - Working with Bo Burnham & Jerrod Carmichael

46:24 - First Feature Film *On the Count of Three*

48:45 - Self-Funded Short Films and Creative Risks

50:30 - Ernie’s Experience with Sundance & Indie Filmmaking

52:10 - The Evolution of Filmmaking in the Digital Age

54:20 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers & Editors

56:05 - How to Find Your Unique Voice as a Creator

58:12 - Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts