How would you manage conflicting feedback from producers and directors during post-production editing?

Feedback from your team is an important factor in assuring the best product is delivered to your clients and should be fostered, but it is crucial that all stakeholders understand and embrace the hierarchy of the of your production- Everyone should respect and support your decisions on the path forward. The goal is to create an environment that advocates for fluid honest dialog while managing individual egos and the group dynamics at play. Everyone should clearly understand the common goal of the project and you need to be able to succinctly articulate the rational for your directives and show GENUINE respect for the contributions from everyone.

Conflicting feedback from producers and directors? I would tell each privately that they have excellent ideas which make sense but there are counter arguments which must be resolved before editing can continue. Next, schedule a zoom conference call for all concerned, with the agenda of reaching consensus before implementing the agreed changes. If possible, better than a Zoom call would be a live meeting in the editing suite. Suggestions can be carried out on the fly. I love working with back seat editors because they have more emotional ownership, they see their ideas come to life quickly, and it is easier to get agreement for one's own modifications when everyone can see the enhancement.

Different perspectives are inevitable in production and post-production. Establishing strong relationships among stakeholders is crucial. Understand where feedback originates and consider involving an external perspective, especially in post-production. Producers and directors may be too close to the project, potentially favoring scenes that don't add value. External feedback, combined with internal input, can clarify decision-making. This approach helps balance emotional attachments with the film’s overall goals, leading to more effective final edits and alignment among the team.

I think the most important thing is to understand the beauty of collective creativity. Great ideas and evolutions of creative thought are sparked by conversation and experience. How our work is viewed can only lend to improvement on all levels.

I agree that listening to feedback is crucial, but it's equally important to keep the broader goals of the creative project in mind. While everyone should express their viewpoints, the final consideration should align with the project's objectives to ensure successful outcomes.

Finding common ground is key when dealing with conflicting feedback. Propose solutions that incorporate elements from both producers' and directors' input. This might mean re-editing certain scenes to satisfy budget constraints while preserving the director's artistic intent or finding creative ways to adjust the narrative that pleases both parties.

patience is key. When the stakes are high on a project, you have to find the balance of asserting yourself, but be open to other opinions. it’s a process.

Feedback is important. First, listen to all of it. Talk it through to understand the reason or perspective. Depending on your role, I am usually a producer/director & often the writer - the end decision will be with me - but I'd take it one step further - ask my distributors opinion. Then make adjustments working closely with the Editor. Repeat. Have everyone involved in the post process watch and give feedback. If there is still large reaching feedback have a new group, unbiased, privately watch the clip or rough cut. Leaning in to fresh eyes and perspective. Finally make the tough calls and move forward. There will always be someone who sees it a different way. Focus on what the original goal for the film was and ask the writer too!