Denise Chan
Motion Picture Editor

WHAT I DO
I love telling grounded stories. Whether I am putting together a stylistic montage sequence or cutting a hefty dialog scene, I am always figuring out how each element can work together to tell a compelling story. If the story benefits from jump cuts, I will make them in an elegant manner. If music can help to shift the tone of a scene that is not playing well, I will lean into it. I love to figure out creative solutions to solve story problems. Beat by beat and moment to moment, I sculpt the story with an intention to evoke the appropriate amount of emotion from the audience at the right moment in the story. It is my goal to take them on a compelling journey.
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I especially enjoy stories that explore the complexity of human nature, love, adventure, and our imagination. Working on projects similar to Lawrence of Arabia, The Queen's Gambit, Game of Thrones, Fleishman is in Trouble, Severance, Better Call Saul, Wednesday or Firefly would be a dream come true. Be they dramas, thrillers, action adventure or sci-fi, my goal is to work on stories that touch the human soul.
YOUR VISION
I listen to YOUR NEEDS and SOLVE your creative challenges.
I am always ready to explore new ideas and color outside my comfort zone. Whether it's working with directors, producers, or addressing network notes, I am adept at implementing solutions that align with your vision.
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MY PROCESS
From doing in-depth script analysis,
Selecting performances that best capture the story,
Manipulating music and visual effects,
To unearthing subtext and controlling perspective within a scene,
I am eager to elevate your footage to new heights.
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Though my list of scripted credits may not be very long, I have the experience, sensibility, and skills to excel in the role. Please see my selected work.
FUN FACTS:
One of my favorite activities outside of work is photographing wildlife. Nature offers stories rich with drama, joy, and heartbreak. While photographing wolves in Yellowstone's Lamar Valley, I witnessed moments of courage, loyalty, and love that moved me to tears.
Fav movies: Dr. Strangelove, Punch Drunk Love, Lawrence of Arabia. Guardians of the Galaxy movies.
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Fav phrase: Aristotle, “Wisest are they who know they do not know.”
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What co-workers have said about me: “a champ at problem-solving”, “never seen anyone with a better attitude”, "indispensable at temp scoring".