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