Love On The Spectrum US is a reality program streaming on Netflix that looks at people on the autism spectrum as they navigate the world of dating and relationships. In its second season, which debuted in January, the US-based series tells the stories of a unique and diverse cast of characters, who are searching for love.
Love On The Spectrum US is Emmy nominated in several categories, including those for Casting, Directing and Picture Editing. The editing team includes Rachel Grierson-Johns, Leanne Cole, Toby Stratmann and Gretchen Peterson.
Grierson-Johns and Cole (pictured, L-R) note that it was a unique workflow in that the editors worked directly with the series' director/showrunner Cian O'Clery.
"We are encouraged to be forensic with the rushes and are entrusted with building the story arcs of each of the characters," explain the editors. "The editing is simple, always with the aim to get the maximum amount of character out of each scene in the gentlest way possible. Our aim is to have the editing to not draw attention to itself to maintain the show's authentic feel."
The editors cut on Avid Media Composer and point to Episode 7, the last of the season, in which connections finally start to be made amongst the subjects.
"One of the most memorable scenes of the series is Connor’s date with Emily, where he musters up the courage to ask to hold Emily’s hand and tell her how he feels," note Cole and Grierson-Johns. "Connor’s series narrative follows his desire to embrace dating versus his overwhelming anxieties and fears around loss of control. We had an overabundance of great moments to choose from, but needed to focus on the moments that were a culmination of his experiences up till this point, which was much easier said than done, as this show has a high shooting ratio! We tightened light scenes for pacing and for Connor’s vulnerable moments, stretched out the silences to make the scene as rewarding as possible, while still maintaining authenticity. Seeing Connor’s transformation from Episode 1 to Episode 7 made the scene a joy to edit."