Purpose of Fine Cut

Here’s Part 3 of my 4-part series that originated from a workflow discussion with PBS producers. See also Stages of Post-Production.

Once the film’s structure has been finalized in the Rough Cut, we’re on to the Fine Cut! The purpose of the Fine Cut is to make the film look and sound pleasing, within 3% of the final TRT.

Micro-edits will finesse scenes and control pacing. It’s also time to fact check and wrap narration. If time permits, rushes are re-screened to find overlooked gems.

The Fine Cut also includes any special effects, title treatment, and placeholders for every single forthcoming shot. No black holes!

See how we incorporate the Fine Cut into our Accelerated Post schedule.

Thanks to director Mimi Malayan for this testimonial:

“New Doc Editing’s 10-week Accelerated Post Production program literally saved my project. I got the best editor I could imagine. He refined the script, eliminated all the extras, and went to the heart of what needed to be said. He is skilled with sound effects and finding archival footage. In addition to all of these skills, he’s an extremely nice person who listens and makes valuable recommendations. Combined with Karen’s review process, the two make an excellent team.”