BEHIND THE SCENES: PAUL HIRSCH TAKES THE EDITING REINS...

 

Having fun with the clapperboard on the Bespin Landing Platform set in July, 1979

Returning back to the Star Wars saga having proudly won an Academy Award for his work on the original 1977 film alongside Marcia Lucas and Richard Chew, respected star editing talent Paul Hirsch is now the sole editorial shaper of The Empire Strikes Back as it enters production in 1979, and up to its eventual release in theatres in May 1980. Importantly, this time out, Hirsch gets a chance to work on the film's cutting whilst principal photography is underway at Elstree Studios in London (staying with the production until 21st August, 1979) then returning back to the US for the long-hours, difficult but ultimately rewarding post production phase ahead, working closely with George Lucas and ILM for the to-be-slotted-in effects sequences taking place this time, and with new director Irvin Kershner, another visualist whose work Hirsh admires. Working together on the film, with so much riding on its success for the George Lucas-funded film production, Empire truly proves no easy task to edit, what with so much going on plot-wise (especially at the beginning of the film) that needs to be carefully set-up for the audience to easily follow. Thankfully, the first sequel ultimately develops its own unique storytelling rhythms, going on to become a richly rewarding viewing experience with its final ultimate shaping as a dark, exciting, emotionally complex continuation.

With his fellow Oscar winners in editing: Richard Chew and Marcia Lucas.

Hanging around on the huge Star Wars Stage in Summer, 1979.

On the Star Destroyer bridge set, Hirsch and camera operator Kelvin Pike watch Mark Hamill have fun with a sci-fi award involving Gary Kurtz and Irvin Kershner, during Summer 1979 filming at Elstree.