How Did ‘The Substance’ Look So GROSS?

Discover How to Edit Like Hayden: https://hayden-hillier-smith.mykajabi.com/edit-like-an-artist Try LTX Studio: https://bit.ly/LTXstudioEP Experience what's only on Musicbed. Sign up for your FREE 14-day trial: https://fm.pxf.io/tepfreetrial Host: @HillierSmith Guest: Jerome Eltabet Editor: @TristanBoudazin2.2 Executive Producer: Vishnu Vallabhaneni 0:00 - Why 'The Substance' Was So Bold 1:25 - How to Create Dynamic Inserts & Sound Design 6:00 - Why The Edit Got BIGGER and BIGGER 11:26 - Insecurity As A Theme 13:35 - Breaking Down the Mirror Sequence 20:16 - How 'Jaws' Inspired 'The Substance' On this episode of The Editing Podcast, award-winning host and editor Hayden Hillier-Smith sits down with Jérôme Eltabet, the editor of the Oscar-nominated body horror film The Substance. Known for its bold storytelling, visceral visuals, and unforgettable sound design, The Substance has become one of the most talked-about films of the year—and in this deep-dive conversation, Eltabet unpacks how it all came together in the edit. Together, Hayden and Jérôme break down the film’s most iconic moments, including the jaw-dropping mirror sequence that left audiences stunned. Eltabet reveals how the team pushed the limits of practical and visual effects in the editing room, and how he crafted the rhythm of tension and release that defines the film’s unique tone. From balancing horror and satire to navigating nonlinear structure, Eltabet offers a rare look into the craft behind a film that’s as psychologically rich as it is viscerally disturbing. They also explore how sound design played a pivotal role in shaping the audience's emotional response, and how the collaboration between editor, director, and sound team elevated each frame. Whether you’re a filmmaker, film student, or a lover of horror cinema, this episode is packed with insider knowledge on cutting edge editing techniques, the post-production process behind an Oscar-nominated film, and what it really takes to make something this audacious come alive on screen.