Lightworks: The Silent Architect of 'Killers of the Flower Moon'

By David Winter
Oct 20, 2023
2 minute read

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The world of cinema often shines the spotlight on directors and actors, and yet behind every poignant scene and seamless transition is the meticulous craft of editing. A great example of this is Martin Scorsese’s latest movie, 'Killers of the Flower Moon' which is out now. This latest entry from the auteur brings forth a narrative replete with historical resonance, unravelling a dark tale of murders within the Osage Nation in the 1920s, after the lucrative discovery of oil on tribal land​​. The entire LWKS team is incredibly proud to say this latest Scorsese masterpiece was once again edited on Lightworks. 

 

The Editor: Thelma Schoonmaker

For the 'Killers of the Flower Moon' edit, editing maestro Thelma Schoonmaker continues her collaboration with Scorsese, which has spanned decades and over 20 films. Schoonmaker’s editing talents transcend the act of cutting and joining clips; it's about understanding the rhythm of storytelling, the beat of emotions, and the visual cadence that drives a narrative forward. Her prowess has earned her a spot among the most revered editors in the film industry and a place in the hearts of cinephiles who appreciate the art of seamless visual storytelling.

In 'Killers of the Flower Moon', Schoonmaker's deft touch is palpable. The narrative unfolds with a rhythmic elegance, each scene meticulously sculpted to evoke the intended emotions, be it dread, empathy, or a sense of justice. Her editing craft is a silent narrative voice, guiding the audience through the complex tapestry of human emotions and historical intricacies embedded within the story.

The Editing Companion: Lightworks 

In the realm of Hollywood post-production, the choice of editing software is crucial. Lightworks, Schoonmaker's editing software of choice, plays an instrumental role in birthing the visual narrative of 'Killers of the Flower Moon'. Amidst the whirlwind of accolades for the stellar cast performances and Scorsese’s directorial genius, the silent yet significant contribution of Lightworks often goes unnoticed. Our intuitive editing software provided the scaffolding on which the visual narrative was meticulously crafted, enabling a seamless storytelling experience.

Lightworks' simplicity and powerful functionality provide a canvas for editors to paint their narrative visions. Its user-centric design facilitates an unbridled creative flow, allowing editors like Schoonmaker to delve into the narrative depths without being hampered by technical constraints. The instinctive interface and robust feature set empower editors to mould narratives precisely, ensuring every emotion is captured, every scene transition is smooth, and every storytelling element is in its rightful place.

De Niro and DiCaprio together in Killers of the Flower Moon

A Testament to Seamless Storytelling

'Killers of the Flower Moon' is more than just a cinematic masterpiece; it’s a testament to the art of visual storytelling facilitated by adept editing with a powerful editing tool like Lightworks. As moviegoers and critics revel in the cinematic journey crafted by Scorsese and brought to life by a stellar cast, we're proud to know that Lightworks played a pivotal role in sculpting a narrative that resonates with historical gravity and human emotions.

Embark on Your Editing Journey

We’ve talked a lot about the magic that unfolds when masterful storytelling meets powerful editing. What if we said you could start your own version of this creative journey right now? Thelma Schoonmaker edits on Lightworks, and so can you. No, this isn't an overstatement; it's an invitation.

Lightworks offers a free version, allowing you to tap into the same powerful editing tools that seasoned professionals like Schoonmaker actually use. The interface is designed for you — whether you're a beginner looking to venture into the world of editing or an experienced editor seeking to refine your craft. With Lightworks, you're in good hands, backed by a community of fellow creators and a platform committed to storytelling.

Ready to edit like Thelma? Start using Lightworks for free today.