Thoughts from Behind the Screen

21 Sep

We’ve received some amazing testimonials since we’ve started our Kickstarter Campaign. But none seemed to touch us more than the following from our Editor, Ed Chin…

In my career I’ve had the opportunity to play against poker champions, march in Rio’s Carnaval parade, sail on an America’s Cup yacht, and tour some of the world’s greatest cities. And I’ve managed to do all of this without ever leaving New York City.

Editors such as myself rarely have the chance to travel for work. Typically the production crew goes on location, shoots what needs to be shot, and brings the footage back to us. Yet without the first-hand knowledge of being there, it is our job as editors to take all of the footage we’re given and help bring it to life for the viewer.

I did not travel a single inch of the John Muir Trail. And when I first saw the footage I couldn’t tell you the difference between Muir Pass and Donahue Pass, or between Evolution Lake and Thousand Island Lake. But sometimes having a fresh perspective can be an asset. I was able to look at the footage and perhaps see moments or images that the group had overlooked or forgotten.

But even with an outsider’s point of view, I’ve always tried to stay as true to the experience as possible while telling the story in the best way I can. I know how much time and energy that Ric, Jen, Jason, Durand and Zee put into this hike and this project. I look at it as an honor and a privilege that they trust me to help present their experience to the public and I want them to feel as though this film truly reflects the journey they took. When they see the finished product, not only do I want it to be a great story, but I want it to be something that they are proud to share with others.

I wasn’t able to hike the trail with them, but I’m glad that I’ve been invited to join in for the rest of this adventure.

- Ed Chin
Editor for The Muir Project