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Discussing Cinema with Stephanie Filo, Television and Film Editor

HBO's A Black Lady Sketch Show's Emmy Award-winning actress opens up about her work experience, the special effects she frequently employs, and the significance of activism in her role.

Discussing Creative Processes with Stephanie Filo, aTV/Film Editor
Discussing Creative Processes with Stephanie Filo, aTV/Film Editor

Discussing Cinema with Stephanie Filo, Television and Film Editor

Stephanie Filo, a proud recipient of an Emmy and Peabody Award, has made a significant impact in the world of television and film editing. With over a decade of experience, Filo's skillset includes precise edits, digital effects, and colour grading, which have helped establish her as a formidable force in the industry [1].

Filo's career began with a gradual accumulation of editing and production experience in television and film. Her hard work and dedication eventually led to her acclaimed work on shows like HBO's A Black Lady Sketch Show. She is also part of the first all-WOC editing team to be nominated for an Emmy [1].

Born in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Filo is not only a talented editor but also a dedicated social activist. She is a board member for Girls Empowerment Sierra Leone, an organisation that enhances the leadership skills of adolescent girls to become effective advocates and social change agents in their communities. Filo is also the co-founder of End Ebola Now, a programme that aimed to spread accurate and current information and raise funds for Emergency USA, the only fully functioning hospital left in Sierra Leone, during the Ebola crisis in West Africa [1].

End Ebola Now's efforts included the #ShakeEbolaOff dance challenge, which involved celebrities like Kevin Bacon. The initiative helped raise awareness and funds for Emergency USA's hospital in Sierra Leone [1].

When not immersed in her work, Filo finds inspiration in various creative outlets. She enjoys watching TV and movies, listening to music, reading, spending time in nature, and picking up random hobbies like knitting or embroidery [1].

In the realm of editing, Filo's favourite tools include Avid Media Composer, a Wacom Cintiq Pro, and Boris FX plugins such as Sapphire, Mocha Pro, and Continuum [1]. Her go-to snack during long editing sessions is Cheez-it.

Filo's main passion is telling authentic stories. If given the opportunity, she would love to collaborate with Sam Esmail, the A Black Lady Sketch Show team, Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall, Eliísabet Ronaldsdottir, and Sion Sono [1].

Despite her success, Filo has never fully mastered dealing with creative burnout. She finds relief in going for long walks with headphones and music, and taking a lunch hour bath during quarantine [1].

For more information about Girls Empowerment Sierra Leone and End Ebola Now, or to find out how to contribute, visit emergencyusa.org.

[1] Source: Various online resources and interviews.

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