Final Cut has added comedic editor Phil Hignett to its roster. His exploits span advertising, feature film and television. Hignett has previously worked closely with the team while cutting hit comedy Sex Education at Final Cut’s dry-hire facility, The Lofts, in London’s Fitzrovia district.
Hignett first discovered his love of editing and the art of making people laugh while at university, when a friend asked him to help cut a loose homage to This is Spinal Tap. Getting his industry start at Marshall Street Editors, Hignett worked his way up to editor, collaborating with directors such as Nick Jasenovec, Keith Schofield, Jake Szymanski, Jeff Labbé and Rhys Thomas. Hignett’s commercial showreel includes projects for clients such as Mercedes-Benz, Barclaycard, Virgin Media, KFC, British Airways and BT.
With the support of long-time collaborator Ben Taylor, Hignett ventured into the world of longform in 2019, working with the director on the critically acclaimed Year of the Rabbit, starring Matt Berry. Hignett’s work on Sex Education earned him awards for editing at the BFE Cut Above Awards and Televisual Bulldog Awards, with the most recent season winning Best Comedy at the 2023 International Emmys. Other longform credits include the multi BAFTA-winning hit series Stath Lets Flats and upcoming Disney+ series Renegade Nell.
“As a little boy growing up in Australia, I always dreamed of joining Final Cut,” said Hignett. “That was the name of the barbers down the street. But this is just as good. Probably better.”
Final Cut U.K. managing director David Webb said, “Phil has a remarkable sense of comedic timing–both in the edit and in life. He’s a great editor and a wonderful human being.”
“After hosting Phil on numerous longform projects at The Lofts, we’ve become accustomed to having him around,” said Final Cut executive producer Michelle Corney. “We’re chuffed to bits that he’s decided to join the Final Cut team for commercial representation.”
Final Cut maintains offices in London, New York and L.A.
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More