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SALLY MENKE, R.I.P.
Stunningly sad news today that Oscar-nominated editor Sally Menke, known for cutting all of Quentin Tarantino’s films, died sometime Monday while hiking in Los Angeles’s extreme heat. She had set out with a friend in Bronson Canyon; after an hour, her friend turned back, and when Menke didn’t return police were called. Her body was found at the bottom of a ravine with her dog at her side. The Los Angeles Times has the details.
In the public mind, editors are sometimes judged by the flashiness of their cutting, a style Tarantino’s films have never embraced. But his films are beautifully modulated, with conversations that lure the viewer in and storylines that refract theme, character and narrative detail in complex and successful ways. As Tarantino’s longtime collaborator in the cutting room, Menke deserves much credit here, and it’s just shocking to hear of her sudden passing. Our condolences to her friends and families.
Below is short piece from the Inglourious Basterds extras in which actors give their call-outs to the colleague who will be shaping their performances.
