I’m Kennedy Kern, a film editor based in Southern California. I focus on narrative storytelling and performance-driven cuts. I care about structure, pacing, and emotional clarity. I like shaping raw footage into something intentional and clean.
I’m currently pursuing my MFA in Film Editing at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film & Media Arts. I collaborate on short films, pilots, and independent projects, working closely with directors to refine tone and rhythm in the edit.
Before graduate school, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Studies with a minor in Theatre from the University of Kansas. That background shaped how I approach performance in the timeline. I pay attention to subtle shifts in expression, timing, and reaction. Editing, for me, starts with the actor.
I build a strong assembly first. Then I tighten structure. I question every cut.
Does it move the story forward?
Does it serve the character?
Is the pacing doing the right work?
I prioritize clarity over flash. If a cut calls attention to itself without purpose, I rethink it.
Avid Media Composer
DaVinci Resolve
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe After Effects
ProTools
Frame.io