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Don Zimmerman, Oscar-Nominated Film Editor, Dies at 81

His passing has prompted tributes to his instinctive storytelling approach that defined modern film editing.

Don Zimmerman
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Overview

  • American Cinema Editors confirmed that Zimmerman died July 24 at his Studio City home after battling acute myeloid leukemia.
  • His first solo credit on Coming Home earned him a Best Film Editing Oscar nomination in 1978 and cemented his reputation in New Hollywood.
  • Over four decades, he shaped landmark titles such as Being There, The Prince of Tides and Night at the Museum while also cutting popular comedies and action franchises.
  • Peers and directors lauded his editorial philosophy of trusting creative instincts and ‘‘telling the truth’’ in the edit.
  • He is survived by his wife Donna, five children—several of whom work in postproduction—and seven grandchildren who carry on his influence in the industry.