Judas and the Black Messiah

Editor, Kristan Sprague

Judas and the Black Messiah editor, Kristan Sprague wasn't exactly unfamiliar with director Shaka King going into this project.  The two had been friends all the way back to their teen years growing up in New York City.   And while their new film is not the first time the two have worked together, there's no question it's the project that made a name for both of them while drawing critical acclaim and award nominations.  Judas and The Black Messiah tells the story of Fred Hampton (Daniel Kaluuya), the chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party in late-1960s Chicago and how he was betrayed by small time crook turned FBI informant, William O'Neal (Lakeith Stanfield).

Editing Judas and the Black Messiah

In our discussion with Judas and the Black Messiah editor, Kristan Sprague we talk about:

• The early days with director Shaka King and the film school experience
• How an actor's mistake can be utilized as a character's mistake
• Figuring out how to set the historical context while keeping up the pace
• Who is the protagonist vs who is the antagonist in the movie
• Utilizing documentary and recreated footage of Bill O'Neal to open and close the film

The Credits

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