The No Film School Podcast

Why This Doc Editor Let's Himself Get Lost

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While documentary editor Lucas Harger loves “being lost in a sea of footage” when he first starts a project, his approach to editing is intentional and specific. From his initial meeting with the director to establishing the context of characters and theme, this editor knows what it takes to transform raw footage into powerful stories. 


In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with editor Lucas Harger to discuss:

  • Falling in love with the community aspect of making a movie
  • Becoming the editor of the documentary, Lions of Mesopotamia
  • The conversation he had with the director at the start of the collaboration
  • The sacredness of the first watch of the footage
  • Why he doesn’t throw anything away during the early stages of editing
  • Customizing your space so you can easily get into the zone 
  • The importance of establishing context - it helps you decide what footage is necessary
  • Difficulties in sourcing and sorting through archival footage
  • Getting the film on the timeline as quickly as possible
  • How working for free has brought him amazing opportunities
  • Three factors Lucas considers when taking on a new project



    • Memorable Quotes

    • “Documentary is the editor’s medium. It’s like the editor’s playground.” [6:03]
    • “You have to interview the collaborator you’re going to work with just as much as they’re interviewing you. ” [9:22]
    • “I don’t believe in good shots or bad shots, just appropriate shots. You just pick the most appropriate thing in the moment.” [12:58]
    • “What are the stories that bring to light the most about the time period, the culture, and this person?” [20:44]
    • “Consume as much as you can, even if you don’t think it’s directly related to the craft or industry.” [34:07]



      • Mentioned

      Lions of Mesopotamia



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