Editing an AI film: the multi-track timeline explained
Generation produces shots; editing produces a film. The timeline is where decent AI shots become a sequence that holds. Here is how to use the studio's nine tracks without losing the rhythm.
Nine tracks, one role each Video, b-roll, music, voice, SFX, text, subtitles, VFX and grade. One track per function avoids spaghetti editing and lets you cut picture without touching sound.
Rhythm rescues imperfect shots An AI shot rarely holds eight seconds on screen. Cut at the third or fourth second, where the motion is cleanest, and move on. Short cutting hides artefacts; long takes expose them.
The transitions that work Hard cut 80% of the time, dip to black to change place or era, cross dissolve for a short ellipsis. Spectacular transitions signal amateurism far more than a small budget does.
Grading and subtitles A shared grade preset unifies shots generated by different engines. Subtitles are not optional: most social views happen with the sound off.
Export for every platform One edit, three exports: 16:9 for YouTube, 9:16 for TikTok, Reels and Shorts, 21:9 for a cinema release. Reframe on the timeline instead of regenerating shots.
Frequently asked questions
Can I edit my AI film elsewhere? Yes, you can download every shot and cut in your usual NLE. The built-in timeline simply removes the round trips.
How do I harmonise shots from different engines? A shared grade, the same light grain and consistent framing are enough to suggest a single camera.
What shot length should I target on social? Two to three seconds per shot on TikTok and Reels, four to six seconds in YouTube format.
Studio Movies IA gives you 50 credits at sign-up — one free 5-second shot, no card required. You can test the method described here in under ten minutes.