In the Blink of an Eye Revised 2nd Edition

Welcome to the enriched world of film editing as envisioned by Walter Murch in "In the Blink of an Eye Revised 2nd Edition." This seminal text has captivated filmmakers, editors, and film enthusiasts for decades, offering profound insights into the art and craft of editing motion pictures. The revised second edition only deepens these insights, presenting a timeless exploration of both the practical and philosophical dimensions of film editing.

Detailed Summary of the Book

The core of "In the Blink of an Eye" centers around the concept that film editing is not merely a technical skill but an artistic endeavor. Walter Murch, celebrated for his work on classics such as "Apocalypse Now" and "The English Patient," draws from his vast experience to illustrate how editors can harness a film's potential through the delicate art of cutting. In this revised edition, Murch expands on his earlier ideas, integrating new technologies and the profound changes they bring to the editing table. The book is rich in anecdotes from Murch's own career, offering readers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the filmmaking process.

Throughout the book, Murch explores why cuts happen when they do, discussing the rhythm and psychology behind editing decisions that can affect the audience's interpretation and emotional engagement with the film. He proposes the radical idea that films are more lifelike when they mirror natural human patterns, such as breathing and blinking. Insights into the digital transformation of film editing after the advent of the non-linear editing system also provide a current perspective on how traditional practices adapt to contemporary demands.

Key Takeaways

• The Philosophy of Editing: Editing is both an art and a science, deeply influenced by the editor's intuition and understanding of human emotions.
• The Rule of Six: A set of priorities that guide editors in making effective cuts - emotion, story, rhythm, eye-trace, two-dimensional plane of screen, and three-dimensional space of action.
• Technological Evolution: A discussion on how digital tools have revolutionized editing, making room for more experimental and efficient workflows.
• Human Perception: The book probes deeply into how editing mimics natural human rhythms like blinking, and how this shapes audience experience.

Famous Quotes from the Book

“The editor is the only person who is making decisions in real time—with every other frame available, and being presented—while the film is being made, and the editor is the only person who has to make these decisions again and again.”

“Blinking is fundamental to our individuality, but also to that warmth and understanding: it is our instinctive disavowal of possession, each blink fully a surrender, thus facilitating exchange.”

Why This Book Matters

"In the Blink of an Eye Revised 2nd Edition" is a cornerstone for anyone interested in film. Walter Murch's unique perspective and comprehensive approach make this book an indispensable resource for editors and filmmakers alike. The book not only covers the technical aspects of film editing but also dives deeply into the emotional and philosophical implications of cinematic storytelling. Murch's ability to articulate the nuances of film editing elevates the discourse surrounding the art, inviting readers to ponder the purpose and impact of each cut. The revised edition's incorporation of digital editing's rise further cements its relevance, bridging the gap between traditional and modern filmmaking practices.

Ultimately, this book is an enlightening read that transcends the boundaries of mere technical guidance, offering a profound examination of what it means to craft a visual narrative. It alerts readers to the delicate, often imperceptible work that editors do to bring stories to life, emphasizing an editor's role in the holistic process of filmmaking.