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Editor

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Male

Birthday

10 March

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Brett W. Bachman

Biography

Brett W. Bachman, ACE, is a highly accomplished American film and television editor renowned for his work in the horror, psychological thriller, and genre-bending cinema. With a keen eye for storytelling and a nuanced understanding of pacing and tone, Bachman has become a sought-after collaborator for leading voices in contemporary genre filmmaking.

 

 

Early Life and Education:

Brett W. Bachman grew up near Seattle. His passion for filmmaking, particularly editing, ignited during his formative years, leading him to produce three self-made documentaries at the age of 19. He pursued formal education at Western Washington University, where he earned a B.A. in English with a Creative Writing emphasis. Furthering his specialized training, he became one of the youngest members of the graduate program at the prestigious American Film Institute Conservatory at 22 years old.

 

 

Career Ascent and Noted Collaborations:

Bachman's career began in various capacities on film productions around 2010, before he focused primarily on editing. He has since built an impressive resume, often working with directors who push the boundaries of genre, such as Panos Cosmatos, Mike Flanagan, Josh Ruben, and Elijah Wood's production company SpectreVision.

 

 

His work is characterized by its ability to navigate complex tonal shifts, blending elements of absurdity, tension, terror, and sincerity within the same scene. He often emphasizes the crucial role of sound design in conveying mood and story, sometimes dedicating half his editing time to early sound design experiments.

 

 

Key Film and Television Projects:

Brett W. Bachman's filmography includes a string of critically acclaimed and popular titles:

  • Mandy (2018): Known for its psychedelic and visceral horror.
  • Color Out of Space (2019): A cosmic horror film starring Nicolas Cage.
  • The Vigil (2019): A psychological horror.
  • Pig (2021): A poignant drama starring Nicolas Cage, which notably impressed director Mike Flanagan.
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  • Werewolves Within (2021): A horror-comedy directed by Josh Ruben.
  • The Fall of the House of Usher (2023): A major Netflix limited series where he served as the sole editor, collaborating closely with creator Mike Flanagan, who personally recruited him via Twitter.
  • The Toxic Avenger (2023): A reimagining of the Troma cult classic.

 

Upcoming and recent projects showcase his continued presence in the genre space:

  • Rabbit Trap (2025): Premiered at Sundance.
  • Companion (2025): A thriller.
  • Heart Eyes (2025): A rom-com-slasher hybrid.
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Several of the features he has edited have premiered at renowned international festivals, including Sundance, TIFF, SXSW, and Cannes.

 

 

Industry Recognition and Philosophy:

A member of American Cinema Editors (ACE) and IATSE, Brett W. Bachman is a respected figure in the editing community. He believes in a collaborative approach, emphasizing clear communication with directors and trusting instincts, especially when dealing with tonal complexities. He often discusses the balance between ambiguity and confusion in storytelling and the importance of allowing the audience to participate in deciphering details.

 

 

Bachman's ability to craft compelling narratives, particularly within the horror and genre sphere, has solidified his reputation as a master editor who consistently delivers engaging and memorable cinematic experiences.