Frederik Isen

Before starting at the European Film College, Frederik Isen hadn't imagined that he would spend his life working in film. However, during his time at EFC, he realized that he wanted to be a film editor.

What was your background prior to starting at EFC?

Even though watching movies was my primary hobby, it had never occurred to me that I should make films myself. But then I heard about the European Film College through one of my father’s friends, and I thought it might be something for me.

Which subjects were you most engaged in while attending EFC?

Before the courses began, I expected that editing would be one of the things that appealed to me most. I’ve always enjoyed editing small videos whenever the opportunity arose in connection with various school assignments. The course definitely lived up to my expectations, and I felt very at home in it, both regarding the theory and the practical work.

How has EFC influenced your path forward in the film and media industry?

On a very practical level, I learned the editing software Avid at EFC. I have used that throughout my career. After I finished at the college, I worked as an assistant editor at the BBC for three and a half years. They also use Avid there, and what I learned about the program at EFC was sufficient.

Since 2025, I have been employed as an assistant editor at a production company in Copenhagen that primarily produces commercials. Things move much faster here than at the BBC, and there is room for me to edit certain projects and be more creative, which I am really happy about.

How significant has your network from EFC been?

In the film and media industry, networking isn't just for show - it is of huge importance. It takes time to establish, but once it’s there, you can really feel the difference because the industry is very competitive and there are many people competing for the same roles.

Even though it’s been a few years since I attended EFC, I am still in touch with many people from my year. After we finished at EFC, many moved to Copenhagen, and since then, many of us have lived together in various combinations.

When I think of my friends from EFC, I see them as my primary friends, not "just" my college friends. I learned a lot from attending the school, but the social bond and the kindred spirits and friends I found there have been the most important thing to me.

It was an eye-opener for me that you can be 20 years old and feel like no one shares your interests, but then 

you go to a film college and become part of a strong community where everyone shares your passion.

What do you dream that your future in the film and media industry will bring?

Even though it is a gradual process, my career in the industry is moving forward, and I am very grateful for that and hope it continues. I apply to the National Film School as often as I can, but I am also very aware that it is not the only path to a future in the industry. In any case, I have no doubt that I want to be an editor.