Where are you currently employed?

I am working freelance at Disney Studios.

Current Project?

The Disney animated adventure feature, Moana, scheduled for release later this year.

Describe Your Job.

As an assistant sound editor, I handle turnovers from the picture department. I act as a general liaison between the sound editors and the picture department, and make sure my editors have their material before they need it.

How did you first become interested in this line of work?

My father, Dan Sable, is a retired sound editor who had his own company called Hastings Sound Editorial, a prominent New York-based audio house. Since childhood, I was always "working" for him. I just expected to join him when I graduated college — and I did.

Who gave you your first break?

My father! 

What was your first union job?

In 1982, it was either George Roy Hill’s The World According to Garp or Woody Allen’s A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy. I was apprentice sound editor on both of them.

Which of your credits or projects have made you the most proud and why?

These four movies especially, all for different reasons: 

Star 80, because I got to see a genius at work: Bob Fosse, who was a legend in my eyes. 

Dirty Dancing, with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray, just because it became a way bigger deal than we all thought it would. I loved the dancing and seeing the Foley artists at work re-creating sounds was thrilling.

Apollo 13 was my first Ron Howard film and it was such a great movie. I was assistant dialogue editor and we all had a lot of fun working on it.

And Chicago, again a movie filled with dance. 

What was your biggest challenge in your job (or on a particular project) and how did you overcome/solve it?

The move from analog to digital was a real challenge. Nowadays it seems like every day is a learning experience. There is always something new to learn.

What was the most fun you’ve had at work?

I would have to say working on The World According to Garp because that was my first time working with a large crew. Another fun time would be when I came to LA to work on Ron Howard’s The Da Vinci Code and wound up living here permanently; it was all so new to me. 

Jobwise, what do you hope to be doing five years from now?

I'm not entirely sure. I like being an assistant sound editor, but no matter what I am doing I want to enjoy it.

What are your outside activities, hobbies, passions?

I love being outside and exploring Los Angeles on foot.  I love to walk…and I will travel to anywhere! My most memorable journey was a walking trip through Vietnam and Cambodia. Stateside, I love Bodega Bay.

Favorite movie(s)? Why?  

David Lean’s Summertime (1955) with Katherine Hepburn and The World of Suzie Wong (1960) with William Holden and Nancy Kwan. Both movies took my breath away, taking me to places I'd never been — real escapism.

Favorite TV program(s)?  Why?

I Dream of Jeannie! I wanted to live in Jeannie’s bottle!

Do you have an industry mentor?

My father, Dan Sable. I was lucky to have learned from him and I feel lucky to have experienced the days of analog sound and large crews. 

What advice would you offer to someone interested in pursuing your line of work?

I would say, “Respect the craft and the people who paved the way. Without them, we wouldn't be here.”

Was there ever a circumstance when you had to rely on the Guild for help or assistance?

There is nothing that stands out in particular, but just knowing that the Guild is there to help is comforting.

Is there anything you’d like to say to your fellow Guild members, some words of encouragement?

Hang in there. There will be bumps along the way, yet at the same time rewards…no matter how one looks at it.

Compiled by Edward Landler

Editor’s Note:  To recommend a member (including yourself) to be featured on the home page of the Editors Guild website, contact edlandler@roadrunner.com