Landon Buford
In the world of film and television, behind-the-scenes talents often remain hidden from the spotlight. However, their contributions are essential to crafting the stories that captivate audiences around the globe. One such unsung hero is Jacques Gravett, ACE, a highly respected figure in the film and television industry whose exceptional skills as an editor have left an indelible mark on the art of storytelling.
Jacques Gravett’s journey in the entertainment industry began in Los Angeles, California, where he discovered his passion for film after graduating from Rolling Hills High School. While his academic pursuits initially led him to San Diego State University’s Fowler School of Business, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Management, it was his unwavering love for cinema that ultimately shaped his career.
After completing his education, Gravett embarked on his professional journey within the entertainment industry. He secured a position at the renowned Paramount Studios, where he would take his first steps into the world of production. During these early years, Gravett contributed to various television series, including iconic shows such as “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” and “Star Trek: Enterprise.” It was during this period that his passion for storytelling through the lens of an editor began to flourish.
As Gravett’s career evolved, he made a pivotal transition to the role of an editor, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that spans over 29 years. His exceptional expertise in shaping narratives and crafting compelling stories quickly earned him a reputation as a trusted and accomplished editor within the industry. His editing credits showcase a diverse range of projects that highlight his versatility and mastery of the craft.
Among his most notable works is his collaboration with Academy Award-winning director Jonathan Demme on the limited TV series “Shots Fired.” The series, which premiered at the esteemed 2017 Sundance Film Festival, garnered attention for its thought-provoking themes and compelling storytelling. Gravett’s contribution to “Shots Fired” underscored his ability to enhance narratives with precision and creativity.
Gravett’s influence extends across a spectrum of successful projects, demonstrating his ability to excel in various genres and storytelling formats. He played a pivotal role in crafting the Apple TV series “Swagger,” where he not only edited the pilot episode but also served as the lead editor. His work also includes contributions to critically acclaimed series such as Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why,” the Golden Globe-winning “The Shield,” and the Peabody Award-winning “Battlestar Galactica.”
His recent endeavors include editing the second season of Starz’s hit drama series “Power Book IV: Force.” This project further solidifies his reputation as an in-demand editor, trusted by industry professionals to bring stories to life with precision and creativity.
Editing is a multifaceted art form, and Gravett has navigated numerous challenges and rewards throughout his career. One particularly challenging and rewarding scene he edited in “Power Book IV: Force” is found in the series’ tenth episode. While he remains tight-lipped to avoid spoilers, Gravett emphasizes the emotional and creative complexity of this scene, which posed a significant test of his editing skills.
In the world of film and television, collaboration is key to achieving the desired outcome. Gravett works closely with directors, writers, and other members of the post-production team to ensure that the vision for each project is brought to life. His collaboration begins during the episode tone meetings, where he gains insights into the creative discussions between the showrunner and the director.
Working closely with his assistant editor, Spencer P. Thompson, Gravett organizes and analyzes the dailies, a crucial step in the editing process. This meticulous approach allows him to focus on cutting picture and music, two essential elements that shape the final product.
Gravett’s involvement continues as he works with the director to ensure their creative vision is reflected on screen while staying true to the showrunner’s overarching vision for the series. This collaborative process extends to producers, the studio, and the network, where feedback and notes are incorporated into the final product. Gravett’s journey culminates in the re-recording mix, where sound and music are harmoniously blended to complement the locked picture.
“Power Book IV: Force” explores themes of power, loyalty, and family dynamics, which deeply influence Gravett’s editing choices. For example, in Season 2, the character of Tommy Eagen, played by Joseph Sikora, grapples with the loss of a loved one. Gravett draws upon his own experiences to empathize with the character, infusing authenticity and emotion into his editing choices.
The series is also known for its intense action sequences and dramatic moments. Gravett approaches the editing of action scenes by first studying the dailies closely to understand how the scene will come together. He identifies key moments within takes and works swiftly to create a rough cut. This initial rough cut serves as a foundation for collaboration, allowing the scene to evolve and improve through feedback and discussion.
“Power Book IV” maintains its own unique tone and style while adhering to the overarching aesthetic of the franchise. Gravett achieves this balance by staying true to the characters’ journeys and the writers’ commitment to the franchise’s aesthetic. He emphasizes that he does not try to reinvent the wheel when editing scenes on the show, as the characters drive the story and guide the editing process.
For aspiring editors looking to work on high-profile series like “Power Book IV,” Gravett offers valuable advice: Master your craft and do the best job you can with the opportunities in front of you, no matter how small they may seem. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication within the post-production team to address potential issues early and ensure a smooth workflow.
Jacques Gravett, ACE, has left an indelible mark on the world of film and television editing through his dedication, talent, and exceptional contributions. His journey from a passionate film enthusiast to a respected industry professional showcases the transformative power of storytelling in the hands of a master editor.
