How to Retime Dialogue Like a Pro – Crafting Authentic Rhythm in Editing

Discover one of the most powerful — yet invisible — techniques in professional film editing: retiming dialogue. In this episode, Paddy Bird breaks down how to create authentic, emotionally resonant scenes by shaping the rhythm, pacing, and timing of speech. Learn how to compress and decompress dialogue, balance dramatic rhythm, and make every line feel real to your audience.

Whether you’re editing documentaries, drama-docs, or cinematic factual films, this video reveals how to control dialogue pacing, build authentic emotion, and direct rhythm on the timeline like a high-end editor.

00:00 The Secret to Authenticity in Editing
1:22 What They Say/How They Say It
2:31 The Illusion of Natural Rhythm in Dialogue
3:36 Retiming:The Basics
4:32 Retiming is Not a Global Setting
5:45 Rhythm is Made Not Given
7:04 But isn't That Dishonest?
7:53 Where to Start with Retiming
8:01 Five Techniques to Master Retiming
9:40 Periodic Table of Editing (Free Poster)
10:40 This is High-Level Work
11:18 Retiming & Pacing - The Takeaway

🎁 Free Editing Poster → https://www.insidetheedit.com/free-ed...

📱 Download the App → https://apps.apple.com/us/app/inside-...

📰 Join Our Newsletter → https://www.insidetheedit.com/the-ins...

🌐 Visit Our Website → https://www.insidetheedit.com/?utm_so...


#filmediting #storytelling #editingtips