Malavika VN - Editor
Editor
Location: Kochi, Kerala, India
“Be open to everything, all formats, all genres. Keep watching everything you can to continue being inspired. Upskilling is a great value-addition. Most importantly, keep at it with whatever resources are available to you. The more you do it, the more you’ll learn.”
Describe your job role and the kinds of projects/clients you work with.
I’m an editor of fiction feature films and web series, predominantly in Malayalam (a regional film industry from South India). I also dabble in advertisements, music videos, corporate films, documentaries, etc.
What does an average day look like in your post-production working world?
When I’m editing a big project like a feature or web series, I usually have an assistant who sets up the project and even makes a rough cut of some scenes. Organization is key - so every step of the way would be carefully mapped out so I can navigate the project with ease. I prefer to work by myself for the first leg of the edit, after which I work with the director to fully bring out their vision. My days often consist of editing, tweaking, checking, and coordinating with all the other post-production departments to ensure a smooth workflow.
How did your career in post production begin?
After my degree in visual communication, I developed a deep interest in film preservation and restoration. I worked as a film archivist for a few years where I worked closely on the preservation of very valuable films from across India. As each reel passed through my fingers on the winding table, I started to notice the splices and where each film would be cut. This led me to pursuing film editing. I shadowed a very prominent editor and I was fascinated by the process. When I got a chance to work as an associate, I jumped at the opportunity, while also working on small projects to improve my skills and build my portfolio. My partner who is a filmmaker gave me my very first editing project - a music video. We have collaborated on many works since then.
What has been your career highlight?
In the industry that I’m part of, there are only a handful of women editors. Definitely a highlight for me was when a young aspiring editor approached me and I was able to give her the opportunity to assist me in a film. I feel very proud that I’m at a stage where I’m able to provide that space which is almost non-existent. Of course, watching my name on the big screen with my family sitting next to me was another very special moment.
Who are your role models in post?
Bina Paul, A Sreekar Prasad, Jennifer Lame, Namrata Rao, Thelma Schoonmaker, Joe Walker - to name a few.
What advice do you have for others wanting to start a career in post?
Be open to everything, all formats, all genres. Keep watching everything you can to continue being inspired. Upskilling is a great value-addition. Most importantly, keep at it with whatever resources are available to you. The more you do it, the more you’ll learn.
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