Editor Myron Kerstein, ACE, has built a remarkable career in film editing, particularly in musical films. His work on Wicked exemplifies his ability to balance character development with the grand spectacle that defines the genre. In a recent discussion, Kerstein shared insights into his journey, the mentorship he received from Editor Jim Lyons, and the lessons he has carried forward.
Manhattan Edit Workshop owner Josh Apter highlights Kerstein’s extensive resume, which includes collaborations with Lyons on Velvet Goldmine and other notable projects. Kerstein fondly recalled his admiration for Lyons, describing him as a mentor who seamlessly blended art with rock and roll. His first encounter with Lyons' work on Safe at the Angelika Film Center left a lasting impression, ultimately influencing his career path.
Editor Jim Lyons' Influence and Artistic Approach
Kerstein’s time working on Velvet Goldmine under Lyons' guidance was his introduction to the complexities of editing a musical. He describes the experience as an intensive crash course in pop and glam rock, where Lyons' passion for storytelling through music left an indelible mark on his creative approach.
Reflecting on Lyons’ impact, Kerstein emphasizes the importance of infusing personal artistry into projects. He always admired how Lyons’ philosophy encouraged editors to embody their work, making each project an extension of their artistic DNA.
Editing Wicked: Balancing Spectacle and Emotion
Editing Wicked posed unique challenges, particularly in balancing intimate character moments with grand musical sequences. Kerstein drew inspiration from childhood influences, including Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, David Lynch, and the New York indie scene, to shape the film’s emotional depth.
Director John Chu and the writing team laid a strong foundation, allowing Kerstein to focus on refining character-driven moments, especially between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande). He discussed the studio's preference for a shorter runtime and the strategic decision to prioritize emotional storytelling over sheer pacing. One standout example was the Ozdust Ballroom scene, where the challenge was to maintain both visual grandeur and authentic character depth.
Experimentation and Audience Engagement
A key aspect of Kerstein’s approach to Wicked was experimenting with techniques that enhance audience engagement. He and Manhattan Edit Workshop owner Josh Apter note the influence of All That Jazz on the Ozdust Ballroom sequence, particularly in breaking the fourth wall.
Kerstein highlights the importance of blending traditional and modern filmmaking styles to create a unique cinematic experience. The goal was to craft a musical that felt both epic and deeply personal, ensuring a fresh and immersive experience for the audience.
Navigating Source Material and Audience Expectations
MEWShop contributor Raphi Salem and Kerstein discuss how the challenge of balancing audience familiarity with The Wizard of Oz and the Wicked Broadway show. He emphasizes the importance of providing enough context for newcomers while preserving the depth that longtime fans expect.
Through careful experimentation, the editing team of Wicked explored various ways to introduce elements of the source material without overwhelming or alienating viewers. Ultimately, the goal was to make the audience feel like an integral part of the story.
The Role of Live Performances in Wicked
One of Wicked's defining features is its commitment to authenticity, particularly in live musical performances. Kerstein, alongside Apter and Salem, discussed the decision to shoot every song live, a technique that enhances emotional authenticity.
Blending live vocals with pre-recorded elements posed technical challenges, but the result was a seamless integration that heightened the film’s realism. Kerstein emphasized that having actors capable of delivering live performances added an irreplaceable layer of sincerity to the film.
Career Advice for Aspiring Editors
Kerstein offers valuable insights for aspiring editors, stressing the importance of remaining open to every opportunity. He encourages young filmmakers to embrace all aspects of the craft, emphasizing that persistence and continuous learning are key to success.
Reflecting on his career, Kerstein acknowledges the hard work and dedication required to build a reputation in the industry. His advice: love what you do, take risks, and always keep refining your skills. His journey from early jobs to editing major musical films serves as an inspiring testament to the power of passion and perseverance in filmmaking.