Cut to the Chase

The book reads like a dream for anyone interested in how filmmaking actually worksSo much of Hollywood history consists of recollections by pioneers like Sam OSteen. This is one of the best Ive read, and a must-read for editors interested in how the craft evolved - Editor’s Guild Magazine Advance Reviews from Top Hollywood Film Directors and Stars: “Sam was a very great editor. He was an artist. His style is distinctive, its hallmark is simplicity and rightness.” Mike Nichols, Director, The Graduate, Catch -22, Silkwood “Working with Sam made you feel you were in your mother’s arms. His professionalism, incredible film memory, taste, and calmness provided a sense of security to the whole project that was rare.” Sidney Lumet, Director, Serpico, Dog Day Afternoon, Network

Sam O’Steen who lived on both coasts, edited dozens of awarded-winning films, including Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf? Cool Hand Luke, The Graduate, Chinatown. Successful screenwriter and editor who lives in New York. Sam O’Steen was the editor who helped create some of the most important films during the Golden Age of Cinema including The Graduate, Chinatown, and Cool Hand Luke. In this behind the scenes look at the art of editing, O’Steen talks candidly about working and playing with Hollywood’s biggest directors and stars.