Interview with Editor Chad Rubel, the Artist
Chad Rubel: A Rising Star in Television Editing
Chad Rubel, a native of Rockland County, New York, has made a name for himself in the world of television editing. His journey began during high school when he started editing on 3/4 inch linear editing systems, a humble beginning for a career that would take him to the forefront of the industry.
Rubel's big break came with the television series Zoo, which gave him his first shot as a TV editor. This opportunity marked a significant milestone in his career, setting the stage for more projects to come.
Rubel's love for film and television is evident in his work. He finds inspiration from dailies and director's choices, meticulously crafting each scene to tell a compelling story. His favourite films include the first two Godfathers and the first three Star Wars movies, reflecting his passion for both cinema and narrative structure.
When it comes to television, Rubel has a soft spot for shows like The Wire, Lost, and Battlestar Galactica (2004). He believes in immersing himself in a show before a big project, especially if it's a returning series.
In his workflow, Rubel uses Boris FX Sapphire plugins, finding them indispensable tools in his Avid-based editing process. On Star Trek: Discovery, he uses a lot of Sapphire S_Shake to create the show's intricate visual effects.
Rubel's assistant editor on Discovery, Darren Hallihan, uses Continuum's BCC_PixelChooser instead of AniMatte this season, a testament to the collaborative nature of the editing process.
Creative burnout is a common challenge in Rubel's line of work. He finds relief through walks, stepping away from the editing bay to clear his mind and recharge.
Rubel's career trajectory is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He advises his younger self to stick at it, avoid getting discouraged, and gain as much experience as possible as an assistant editor.
Rubel dreams of collaborating with edit masters like Anne V Coates, Verna Fields, and Thelma Schoonmaker, industry legends whose work he admires deeply. As he continues to make his mark in television editing, these collaborations may yet become a reality.
When working, Rubel drinks a lot of water to stay hydrated, but may slow down on a producer's day. He snacks on Trek Mix and protein bars throughout the day to keep his energy levels up.
In a fast-paced industry, Chad Rubel stands out for his dedication, creativity, and passion for his craft. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring editors everywhere.
Movies-and-TV entertainment is a true passion for Chad Rubel, as reflected in his work and choices. He finds inspiration in classic films like the first two Godfathers and the first three Star Wars movies, and he enjoys immersing himself in TV shows such as The Wire, Lost, and Battlestar Galactica (2004).