Episode-01 - Elevate Inclusion Strategies

Episode 1: Lillian E. Benson, A Film Editor’s Reflections

From an early age, Emmy-nominated Lillian E. Benson has been an acute observer of people and her surroundings. She brings that quality, and many others, to her remarkable work as an acclaimed film editor. Lillian was the first African-American female editor selected for membership in the American Cinema Editors. Her life’s mission has been to contribute to the world through telling authentic stories. In this episode, she shares with Natasha her approach to storytelling and how her experience as a Black working-class woman influenced her journey. This candid and wise conversation about Lillian’s journey in life and the art of editing offers important insights for every filmmaker.

Show Notes

Lilian E. Benson

Bio

Lillian Benson – IMDb

Awards

2022 Career Achievement Award for Outstanding Contributions to Film Editing from American Cinema Editors (ACE). The American Cinema Editors was established in 1950; Lilian became a member in 1991.
Lillian’s Speech at the ACE Eddie Awards; Eddies | American Cinema Editors | ACE
2017 Recipient of the Motion Picture Editors Guild’s Fellowship and Service Award.
2017 Black Hollywood Education Center Career Achievement Award.
2017 Pratt Institute Distinguished Alumni Award. Lillian’s high school art teacher was able to attend the ceremony along with family and friends.
Nominated for an Emmy for the acclaimed civil rights series “Eyes On the Prize II.”
Contributed to films that have garnered five Emmy nominations, four Peabody Awards, and numerous other honors.