Glossary

9.5 Killing your darlings

7 min read•august 20, 2024

In filmmaking, "" means cutting beloved scenes that don't serve the story. This process requires and a willingness to prioritize the audience's experience over personal attachment. It's a crucial skill for creating impactful, well-paced films.

Effective darling-killing involves identifying unnecessary scenes, overcoming , and focusing on the bigger picture. By embracing this challenge, filmmakers can improve , strengthen , and increase audience engagement. The key is striking a balance between and preserving the story's heart.

Importance of editing in filmmaking

  • Editing is a crucial part of the filmmaking process that shapes the final product and determines how the story is told
  • Involves selecting, arranging, and combining the best shots and scenes to create a cohesive narrative
  • Editing decisions can greatly impact the pacing, tone, and emotional impact of a film

Killing your darlings

Origin of the phrase

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  • The phrase "kill your darlings" is often attributed to William Faulkner, although its exact origin is debated
  • It has been used in various creative fields, including writing and filmmaking, to emphasize the importance of cutting beloved but unnecessary elements
  • Encourages creators to be objective and ruthless in their editing decisions

Meaning in filmmaking context

  • In filmmaking, "killing your darlings" refers to the process of cutting scenes, shots, or sequences that the filmmaker may be emotionally attached to but do not serve the overall story
  • It involves letting go of elements that may be personally meaningful or aesthetically pleasing but ultimately detract from the film's effectiveness
  • Requires filmmakers to prioritize the audience's experience and the integrity of the narrative over their own attachment to specific material

Identifying scenes to cut

Evaluating scene necessity

  • Filmmakers must critically assess each scene and determine whether it is essential to the story, characters, or themes
  • Scenes that do not contribute to the overall narrative arc or may need to be cut, even if they are well-executed or emotionally resonant
  • Asking questions like "Does this scene move the story forward?" or "Is this information already conveyed elsewhere?" can help identify unnecessary scenes

Scenes that slow pacing

  • Pacing is a critical aspect of filmmaking, and scenes that disrupt the desired pace of the film may need to be cut or trimmed
  • Overly long or indulgent scenes can cause the audience to lose interest or momentum, even if they contain strong performances or visuals
  • Cutting scenes that slow the pacing can help maintain a sense of urgency, tension, or forward movement in the narrative

Scenes that don't advance story

  • Scenes that do not advance the plot, reveal character, or contribute to the film's themes may be candidates for cutting
  • Even if a scene is well-acted or visually striking, if it does not serve a clear purpose within the larger narrative, it may be more effective to remove it
  • Redundant scenes that repeat information or emotional beats already established elsewhere can also be cut to streamline the story

Emotional attachment to material

Writer vs filmmaker perspective

  • Writers may have a deeper emotional connection to specific scenes or dialogue, as they have spent significant time crafting and refining the material
  • Filmmakers, on the other hand, may have a more objective perspective and be more willing to make cuts in service of the overall film
  • Balancing the writer's attachment to the material with the filmmaker's need to create a cohesive and effective final product can be challenging

Separating ego from process

  • Killing your darlings requires filmmakers to separate their ego and personal attachment from the editing process
  • It involves recognizing that cutting a scene is not a reflection of its quality or the filmmaker's ability, but rather a necessary step in shaping the film
  • Filmmakers must be willing to make difficult decisions and let go of material they may love for the sake of the larger work

Benefits of ruthless editing

Improved pacing and flow

  • Cutting unnecessary or slow-paced scenes can greatly improve the overall pacing and flow of the film
  • A well-edited film maintains a sense of momentum and keeps the audience engaged from beginning to end
  • Removing scenes that disrupt the pacing can create a more satisfying and cohesive viewing experience

Stronger narrative impact

  • By focusing on the most essential and powerful scenes, ruthless editing can lead to a stronger narrative impact
  • Cutting extraneous material allows the core story and themes to shine through more clearly and effectively
  • A streamlined narrative can have a more profound emotional effect on the audience

Increased audience engagement

  • A tightly edited film is more likely to hold the audience's attention and keep them invested in the story and characters
  • Removing scenes that may cause the audience to lose interest or become distracted can lead to higher engagement and satisfaction
  • A well-paced and focused film can create a more immersive and memorable experience for viewers

Techniques for objective evaluation

Feedback from trusted sources

  • Seeking feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or test audiences can provide valuable insight into which scenes are working and which may need to be cut
  • Outside perspectives can help filmmakers identify areas where their emotional attachment may be clouding their judgment
  • Constructive criticism and honest feedback can guide the editing process and lead to a stronger final product

Time away from the material

  • Taking a break from the film and returning to it with fresh eyes can help filmmakers gain a more objective perspective
  • Stepping away from the material for a period of time can allow filmmakers to see the work more clearly and make more rational editing decisions
  • Returning to the film after a break can also help identify pacing issues or scenes that no longer feel necessary

Focusing on the bigger picture

  • When evaluating scenes for potential cuts, filmmakers should always keep the bigger picture in mind
  • Asking questions like "How does this scene fit into the overall narrative?" or "What is the purpose of this scene in relation to the film's themes?" can help guide editing choices
  • Prioritizing the film's overall effectiveness and impact rather than getting bogged down in individual scenes can lead to more successful darling-killing

Overcoming resistance to cutting

Embracing the creative challenge

  • Killing your darlings can be seen as a creative challenge rather than a painful sacrifice
  • Embracing the opportunity to refine and strengthen the film through editing can help filmmakers overcome their resistance to cutting
  • Viewing the editing process as a chance to problem-solve and find innovative solutions can make it more rewarding and less daunting

Saving cut material for later

  • Filmmakers can save cut scenes or sequences for potential use in other projects, such as deleted scenes, short films, or even future works
  • Knowing that the material is not lost forever can make it easier to let go and make necessary cuts
  • Keeping a "cutting room floor" file can also provide a sense of security and alleviate the fear of losing valuable work

Recognizing the iterative process

  • Filmmaking is an , and the editing stage is just one part of the larger journey
  • Recognizing that cuts made in the editing room are not necessarily final can help filmmakers be more open to making changes
  • Understanding that the film will continue to evolve and improve through subsequent stages (sound design, color grading, etc.) can make the cutting process feel less daunting

Examples from notable films

Successful darling-killing

  • Many acclaimed films have benefited from the practice of killing darlings in the editing process
  • Examples include "Apocalypse Now" (Francis Ford Coppola cut several hours of footage), "Annie Hall" (Woody Allen removed a subplot involving a murderer), and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" (Michel Gondry cut a significant portion of the film's original ending)
  • These films demonstrate how cutting beloved but unnecessary material can lead to a stronger and more impactful final product

Director insights on the process

  • Acclaimed directors have spoken about the importance and challenges of killing their darlings in interviews and commentaries
  • For example, Quentin Tarantino has discussed the difficulty of cutting scenes from "Kill Bill" that he loved but recognized did not serve the story
  • Director commentary tracks often provide valuable insights into the thought process behind specific editing decisions and the benefits of cutting certain scenes

Striking the right balance

Cutting too much vs too little

  • While killing your darlings is important, filmmakers must also be careful not to cut too much and lose the heart of the story
  • Over-editing can lead to a film feeling too sparse or lacking in emotional depth and character development
  • Finding the right balance between cutting unnecessary material and preserving the film's core elements is key to successful editing

Maintaining the heart of the story

  • When making cuts, filmmakers must always keep the heart of the story and the emotional core of the characters in mind
  • Cutting scenes that may be darlings but are crucial to the film's themes, message, or character arcs can be detrimental to the overall impact
  • Striking a balance between ruthless editing and preserving the essential emotional elements is necessary for creating a powerful and resonant film

Key Terms to Review (22)

Audience experience: Audience experience refers to the emotional and intellectual engagement that viewers have while consuming a film or other narrative form. This term encompasses how the content resonates with the audience, influencing their thoughts, feelings, and overall connection to the story being told. The quality of this experience can be shaped by various elements such as character development, plot structure, visual storytelling, and sound design, which all play a crucial role in capturing the viewer's attention and empathy.
Character Development: Character development refers to the process of creating and evolving a character throughout a story, highlighting their traits, motivations, and growth. This process is crucial in engaging audiences and providing depth to the narrative, as well as connecting with elements like dialogue, themes, and the overall rewriting journey.
Clarity of Vision: Clarity of vision refers to the ability of a writer to see and communicate their narrative clearly and effectively, ensuring that the intended message resonates with the audience. It is about having a focused understanding of the story's themes, characters, and structure, which helps in making informed creative decisions. This clarity allows writers to distinguish essential elements from those that may detract from the overall impact of their work.
Director insights: Director insights refer to the unique perspectives and interpretations that a director brings to a film project, influencing the overall vision and execution of the story. These insights often stem from their personal experiences, artistic sensibilities, and understanding of character motivations, which all help shape the narrative and visual style of a film.
Emotional attachment: Emotional attachment refers to the deep emotional bond that forms between characters and the audience, making viewers feel invested in their journeys and outcomes. This connection is crucial in storytelling, as it drives engagement and empathy, influencing how audiences perceive character motivations and conflicts.
Feedback sessions: Feedback sessions are structured discussions where writers and directors exchange constructive criticism on a script or film project. These sessions are crucial for refining the creative work, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that the vision aligns between the writer and the director. Through feedback sessions, creators can identify strengths and weaknesses in their projects, leading to improved storytelling and character development.
Inciting Incident: The inciting incident is a crucial moment in a story that sets the main plot into motion, creating conflict and compelling the protagonist to take action. This pivotal event disrupts the status quo, leading to the rising action and driving character development throughout the narrative. It typically occurs early in the screenplay and connects deeply with themes, character arcs, and overall structure.
Iterative process: An iterative process is a method of problem-solving or development where a sequence of steps is repeated, often with the aim of refining or improving the outcome at each cycle. This approach allows creators to continuously assess and adjust their work, leading to more polished and effective results. Iteration is crucial in writing and filmmaking, as it encourages feedback and changes that enhance storytelling.
Killing your darlings: Killing your darlings refers to the practice of eliminating beloved or cherished elements in writing, whether they be scenes, characters, or lines, that do not serve the overall narrative or purpose of the story. This concept emphasizes that emotional attachment to these elements can hinder the quality of the work, and the willingness to let them go can lead to a stronger, more cohesive piece. By prioritizing the story's needs over personal attachment, writers can enhance clarity and focus in their storytelling.
Narrative impact: Narrative impact refers to the emotional and intellectual effect a story has on its audience, shaping their understanding and feelings about the characters, themes, and overall message. This impact can be influenced by various storytelling techniques such as character development, plot structure, and thematic depth, which all contribute to how the audience connects with the narrative.
Objectivity: Objectivity refers to the practice of maintaining an impartial and unbiased perspective when creating narratives or analyzing situations. In writing, especially in film, it is essential for writers to approach their subjects without personal bias to ensure authenticity and credibility in storytelling.
Overindulgence: Overindulgence refers to the excessive or unrestrained enjoyment of something, often leading to negative consequences. In the context of writing, it highlights the tendency for writers to cling to certain ideas, scenes, or dialogue that they are particularly attached to, even when these elements do not serve the overall story or enhance its effectiveness. This can create clutter and dilute the impact of the narrative, making it important for writers to recognize when to let go.
Pacing: Pacing refers to the speed at which a story unfolds, controlling the rhythm and flow of events in a screenplay. It is essential for maintaining audience engagement, as it dictates how quickly or slowly the plot develops and how tension builds. Effective pacing ensures that key moments resonate, while also allowing for quieter scenes to breathe and develop character or theme.
Peer review: Peer review is a process where a writer shares their work with others, usually fellow writers or knowledgeable individuals, to receive constructive feedback before finalizing it. This collaborative process enhances the quality of the writing by allowing different perspectives and insights to refine ideas, improve clarity, and elevate the overall narrative.
Plot pacing: Plot pacing refers to the speed at which a story unfolds, guiding the audience through the narrative by controlling the timing of events, character development, and emotional beats. Effective pacing ensures that the story maintains interest and engagement, balancing moments of tension and release, while also shaping the overall structure of the screenplay. It plays a vital role in how viewers experience key scenes and transitions, affecting their emotional connection to the characters and plot.
Ruthless editing: Ruthless editing refers to the practice of critically evaluating and eliminating unnecessary or ineffective content from a script to enhance clarity, pacing, and emotional impact. This process requires a writer to detach from their work and prioritize the story's needs over personal attachment to specific lines or scenes. By embracing this method, writers can create a more engaging narrative that resonates with audiences.
Self-editing: Self-editing is the process of reviewing and revising one’s own writing to improve clarity, coherence, and overall quality before submitting or sharing it with others. This important skill allows writers to critically assess their work, identify unnecessary elements, and refine their storytelling, ensuring that every part serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative.
Sentimentality: Sentimentality refers to an excessive or superficial emotional response that often seeks to provoke feelings of tenderness, pity, or nostalgia. In storytelling, it can sometimes detract from the authenticity of characters and situations, leading to unrealistic portrayals and manipulative narratives that prioritize emotional impact over genuine human experience.
Staying on Theme: Staying on theme refers to the practice of ensuring that all elements of a story—such as characters, dialogue, and plot—consistently reflect and support the central message or concept of the narrative. This coherence helps to create a stronger emotional impact and deeper connection with the audience, making the story more memorable and effective.
Table reads: Table reads are informal rehearsals where actors read through a script aloud, typically around a table, to gain insights into the story, characters, and dialogue. This process allows writers, directors, and producers to hear the script come to life, helping them identify areas that may need adjustment or refinement before moving forward with production.
Three-act structure: The three-act structure is a narrative framework that divides a story into three distinct sections: setup, confrontation, and resolution. This model helps writers create a cohesive flow, guiding the audience through the development of characters and plot while maintaining pacing and dramatic tension.
William Faulkner's Quote: William Faulkner's quote, 'Kill your darlings,' emphasizes the necessity for writers to eliminate their favorite but extraneous ideas, phrases, or characters to improve their work. This concept encourages writers to prioritize the overall narrative and coherence of their stories over personal attachment to specific elements, ultimately leading to a more polished and engaging final product.
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