Uppercut Adds Editors David Checel and Gabe Britz

Next-gen, premier editorial, finishing, and VFX studio Uppercut is excited to welcome David Checel and Gabe Britz to their talented roster of editors. David and Gabe will be based at Uppercut's burgeoning Los Angeles office, which launched last year. 

A lifelong native of Culver City, California, David Checel discovered his passion for editing while making home movies in high school. Working with VHS decks and a sound mixer, he was amazed by the power of film to evoke emotions by combining specific images and sounds. After graduating from USC's film school, David cut his teeth as an A/V coordinator in an advertising agency. After becoming their in-house editor, he made the transition to FilmCore Editorial, where he assisted Charlie Chubak. Charlie always encouraged him to edit projects they were working on, and through these opportunities, he gained his first set of clients and quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative editor.

David values working with repeat clients as it offers him an opportunity to build long-lasting relationships based on trust and openness, which foster better collaboration. The ultimate goal is to create a workspace that does not feel like work, but rather a place that sparks creativity and ideas, where “happy accidents” thrive, and everyone can leave feeling positive about the work accomplished.

"Uppercut is such a unique working environment," remarks David. "Micah, Lisa, and the team have perfectly created this incredible space that blends innovation, creativity, and collaboration. I'm honoured to be joining the team."

Growing up in Napa, California, Gabriel Britz wanted to be a filmmaker for as long as he can remember. After developing an interest in editing while making skateboarding videos with his friends, Gabe's initiative was nurtured by his high school teachers, who allowed him to submit video projects instead of writing papers. He then went on to the University Of California San Diego Graduating Magna Cum Laude in Film and Editing.

As an editor, Gabriel continues to be captivated by the power of storytelling to create and shape the viewer's emotions. One of his favourite projects this year was a collaboration between Hyundai and Annie Leibovitz. He got an inside look into the legendary photographer's process while telling compelling stories about real people making a difference in their communities. Gabriel's work on the title sequence of 'Masters of Sex' was nominated for an Emmy Award. 

On joining Uppercut, Gabe says, "I wanted to be part of something that could reach a broad spectrum of clients in multiple markets. The way that Uppercut runs their business is next-level, and I was inspired from the jump."

Editor/owner Micah Scarpelli says, "Since its inception in 2015, Uppercut has evolved into a vibrant creative studio that welcomes the creative individuality of all collaborators while remaining dedicated to excellence in craft and an eye towards innovation. David and Gabe have repeatedly proven their mettle over their careers, and we're looking forward to charting new territory with both of them on board."