Rough Cut
A Rough Cut is an early version of a film or video that shows the basic structure but isn't fully polished. Think of it like a first draft of a written document. It includes most of the main footage put together in the right order, but usually lacks final sound mixing, color correction, or special effects. This version is important because it lets directors, producers, and stakeholders see how the story flows and make important changes before finalizing the project. In job descriptions, you might also see this referred to as "assembly cut" or "editor's cut."
Examples in Resumes
Created Rough Cuts for 12 commercial projects, leading to successful client approvals
Delivered Rough Cuts and First Cuts for documentary series within tight deadlines
Supervised Assembly Cuts and Rough Cuts for independent feature films
Typical job title: "Film Editors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Film Editors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle feedback from multiple stakeholders on a rough cut?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for managing different opinions, prioritizing feedback, and maintaining the project's vision while accommodating key stakeholders' input.
Q: Tell me about a time when you had to completely restructure a rough cut due to major story issues.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, experience with story structure, and ability to make major editorial changes while managing time constraints.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your typical workflow from receiving raw footage to delivering a rough cut?
Expected Answer: Should describe organized approach to reviewing footage, creating select reels, arranging scenes, and building the initial edit structure.
Q: How do you determine the pacing of different scenes in a rough cut?
Expected Answer: Should explain understanding of storytelling, emotional impact, and how to adjust editing rhythm for different types of content.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a rough cut and a final cut?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic understanding of editing stages, mentioning that rough cuts are initial assemblies without refined audio, effects, or color correction.
Q: How do you organize your footage before starting a rough cut?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic file management, logging footage, and creating a simple system for finding needed clips quickly.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic editing software knowledge
- Creating simple rough cuts
- Organizing footage and assets
- Following editing guidelines
Mid (2-5 years)
- Efficient rough cut creation
- Working with client feedback
- Managing multiple projects
- Understanding story structure
Senior (5+ years)
- Leading post-production teams
- Complex narrative editing
- Training junior editors
- High-pressure deadline management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of standard editing software
- Unable to meet quick turnaround times
- Poor communication with team members
- Lack of basic storytelling understanding
- No experience with handling feedback
Related Terms
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