Juliet Janklow - Assistant Editor
Job title - Assistant Editor
Experience - 5+ years
“A career highlight for me was being able to join the Motion Picture Editors Guild after a few years of being an unscripted Assistant Editor... Joining the guild has given me opportunities I would have never thought I could have now. ”
Meet Juliet Janklow, an L.A based I.A.T.S.E Local 700 Assistant Editor. Juliet’s story really shines a light on the benefits of pursuing a role as an assistant editor. She perfectly captures how important the role is in laying the foundations to your career as an editor. I love how detail oriented she is and her recognition of the growth that comes with working alongside an editor. Enjoy Juliet’s career story!
Describe your job role and the kinds of projects/clients you work with.
I'm an ambitious I.A.T.S.E Local 700 Assistant Editor. I have worked on documentaries, doc-series, and most recently an Indie Feature Film. My job is to assist the Editor on a day-to-day basis with anything from sound design, temporary vfx, and even cutting scenes. I also edit short films, branded content, and music videos in my spare time!
What does an average day look like in your post production working world?
An average day as an Assistant Editor in feature films can vary depending on what phase of Post Production you're in. When the film is in production, I will receive the dailies from the Post Production house, organize all the footage, group and sync any multi-camera scenes, then pass along to the Editor so they can assemble each scene. During a cut, I'll start by having a coffee with the Editor and go over the day's to-do list. We will discuss story beats, the shape of each scene and act, and sometimes we will watch through the whole film together. During a Director's cut, the Editor will often times ask me to sit in on a session with the Director to learn about the Director and Editor relationship. I cherish every moment of growth and opportunity when working with an Editor.
How did your career in post production begin?
I began my career in Post Production as an Post Production Assistant on the feature film War for the Planet of the Apes. Working on a major feature film taught me so much about Post and the importance of relationships you can make in this industry. I learned about Post Production workflow, relationship building, working your way up from the top, and cutting room politics. Although some days were challenging, I would not trade that experience for anything else. During that time, I made sure to stay creative and get my hands on anything I could edit, even it was for free. Practice makes perfect!
What has been your career highlight?
A career highlight for me was being able to join the Motion Picture Editors Guild after a few years of being an unscripted Assistant Editor. I worked in Documentaries for a while with the dream of working in scripted film and television. For some time, that dream seemed nearly impossible. Joining the guild has given me opportunities I would have never thought I could have now. I've been able to meet amazing Editors and Assistant Editors through the guild and cannot wait to see what other opportunities arise. Meeting Hugh Jackman on the Fox Studios lot is a close second though!
Who are your role models in post?
One of my role models in Post is Editor Cecily Rhett. Cecily was my editing professor at the Brooks Institute. When I entered film school, I thought I wanted to edit movie trailers, but was still unsure of the direction I wanted to go in. Through her teaching, she influenced my love for narrative story telling. To this day, Cecily has helped guide me through my career. She gave me my break as an Assistant Editor on a documentary feature film during the pandemic. Getting to learn from her in school and in the field has been a joy and I consider her a mentor now. She is an exemplary model for anyone who wants to work as a film and television Editor.
What advice do you have for others wanting to start a career in post?
My advice for anyone wanting to start a career in Post would be to put yourself out there. Don't be afraid to make yourself and your goals known. Being the quiet person in the room will only hurt your chances of growing and meeting amazing people who could be your mentor or give you the next opportunity. Send emails or messages to your favorite Editors. Always ask for the opportunity to learn from others around you. More than likely, people are willing you show you the ropes.