Randy Carter Interview - Jersey Shore Shark Attack Editor

Randy Carter who was the Editor on the film 'Jersey Shore Shark Attack' was kind enough to take some of his time out today to answer some questions.


JSSA:  Please tell us a little history about your editing experiences?


Randy Carter: Having graduated from the Vancouver Film School in 1994, I have been an editor for over 15 years.  I have edited everything from theatrically released independent films to cable TV movies and series, of a great variety of genres.

JSSA: What was a main challenge for you in Jersey Shore Shark Attack?

Randy Carter: In addition to the ordinary challenges of editing a feature, there were two specific things that stood out for me on this film.  The first was that I had never actually seen the "Jersey Shore" tv show.  So I crammed in a viewing of a bunch of episodes to get me up to speed on the flavor of that show, some of which we were trying to emulate.  Secondly, as with all CGI creature films, there's the challenge of editing sequences involving the creature (in this case, sharks) when those creatures won't be created in CGI for several months.  It can be difficult to get the pacing and timing right without the visual effects completed, which is one of the reasons that we never finish cutting the picture until all of the effects are in, so that we can make any last minute timing changes.

JSSA: Do you have a favorite character from the Jersey Shore beach?

Randy Carter: From the TV show, I'd have to say Snooki.  Who doesn't love Snooki?  From our show, I'd have to say either Paulie or BJ.  They just have so many great bits of business that I find hilarious.

JSSA: Do you have a favorite slang term in the film?

Randy Carter: There are so many, it's hard to pick a favorite!  Paulie yelling "Do you, TC!  Do you!" is close to the top of my list.

JSSA: In the film is there a favorite part for you?

Randy Carter: The scene with the kids trying to steal the boat (and not very successfully) always makes me laugh.  "Looks like things just got complicated!"

JSSA: Is there something in there that is hysterical to you, that just maybe the audience will not catch?

Randy Carter: Yes.  When BJ is being chased by sharks, and she is struggling to swim for her life and shouts "OMG!"  I laugh every time.

JSSA: What do you want your audience to get from this film?

Randy Carter: This film is made for the audience to have fun.  Turn off your brain for a few hours and enjoy!

JSSA: Do you have some advice for future editors out there?

Randy Carter: Don't give up.  Getting your foot in the door can be difficult, but once you have, and if you can consistently deliver quality work, you will be successful.