Ben mercer
Film editor / Drum & Colours Ltd
"My approach to the nature and method of editing can be summed up in three words:
ISOLATE * ILLUMINATE * ELUCIDATE
I hold there can be, and is, a rational and objective approach to film editing, that inspires the emergence of the unexpected.
A kind of original beauty out of structural discipline and non-partisan principles."
–Ben Mercer
DRAMATURGIC EXPERTISE
In addition to my normal role as film editor, screenwriters, producers and directors alike also employ me for dramaturgical analysis on script development and offline cuts.
LECTURES
I regularly give lectures on the dramaturgy of editing.
My practical knowledge and experience of the editorial logistics of feature films on- and off-location is also a skill much in demand. Here are some links to some recent talks I’ve given in Barcelona and Amsterdam.
AWARDS
I have received two Finnish Film Academy Award nominations for Best Editing for my work on ”Naked Harbour” and ”Unknown Soldier”.
The latter film brought home the award.
In 2017 I was awarded an honorary distinction at the Voitto Awards for my life's work in commercial editing by the Association of Independent Producers in Finland (SATU ry)
Latest Work
"Niko - Beyond the Northern Lights"
The third instalment from the animation feature series, Niko.
Director Kari Juusonen. Cinemaker / Anima.
The film is in postproduction with a target premiere of 2024
"The Inheritance"
Episodes 1 and 4 of a 4-part drama for Channel 5 UK
Starring Robert James-Collier, Gaynor Faye and Jemima Rooper.
Produced by Peer Pressure and Lonesome Pine
Premiered Fall 2023
"Dance Brothers"
A 10-episode Netflix Series.
Director Taito Kawata. Producer Max Malka / Endemol Shine
Released on Netflix in May 2023
Previous work (the trailers are not edited by Ben)
Get in touch with me directly or through my agents.
Agent / Siân Gordon
The Lisa Richards Agency
London office
Agent / Richard Cook
Dublin office