Interview with Elena Maggioni

Interview by Chloe at Behind The Edit

Chloe: Let's start at the beginning—how did you first get into post-production?

Elena: 

I actually studied at university in Milan, and at the time, I didn’t know anything about post-production. It wasn’t something I came across at all during my studies. It was only after I graduated and started exploring the industry that I discovered this whole world happening behind the scenes.

What’s always really confused, and fascinated me is how much of a production’s budget goes into post, and how crucial it is in shaping the story, yet it’s something hardly anyone talks about unless you work in it. People outside the industry rarely understand what post really does, and yet it’s absolutely integral to the storytelling process. Now I’m working as a post-production coordinator in Rome, and I love being part of this unseen part of filmmaking that’s so essential.

Chloe: What’s been one of your favourite projects to work on and why?

Elena: 

One of my favourite projects has been The Art of Joy by Valeria Golino. The director was incredible, the story itself is fantastic, and it’s a beautifully crafted, very feminist piece. It was also the first big production I worked on, which makes it even more special. Since then, I’ve been lucky to work on other inspiring projects, like My Family, a bittersweet comedy series now on Netflix.

Chloe: Are there any tools or workflows you swear by to make your job smoother?

Elena: 

I wouldn’t say there’s one tool for every project—it really depends on the show. But I do love using the Netflix tools like Content Hub and Production Centre. They make navigating Netflix productions much smoother and more organised, and I really enjoy working with those systems when I can.

Chloe: Collaboration is such a huge part of post-production. What do you think makes someone a great collaborator?

Elena: 

Honestly, I think the best collaborators are great listeners. People who actively listen—who really take the time to hear different arguments and situations - make a huge difference on any team. Being able to understand someone else’s perspective and not just waiting for your turn to speak… that’s what builds great teamwork.

Chloe: What changes have you seen in the industry, particularly in Italy? Where do you think it’s heading?

Elena: 

In Italy, we’ve seen a huge shift. There are fewer films being made now, but there’s been an explosion in TV series. Television production has grown so much, and it feels like that’s where the industry is heading for the foreseeable future.

Chloe: How do you stay motivated when the work gets tough?

Elena: 

It’s all about your network—the people you work with. I really believe in sharing problems as well as successes. My work ethic is that if one person on the team makes a mistake, we all made a mistake. And if one person wins, we’ve all won. That approach means that when something goes wrong, it’s not on your shoulders alone—it’s something the whole team can tackle together. That kind of support keeps me going, even when the job gets really tough.

Chloe: Who have been the mentors or people who’ve shaped your career?

Elena: 

I’ve been really lucky to work with two post-production supervisors who’ve both shaped how I approach my work. They had completely different styles, but I learned so much from each of them. Their mentorship has really influenced my mentality and how I lead and support a team now.

Chloe:

What does your family think of your job? Do they understand what you do when you’re working late hours?

Elena: 

[Laughs] No, they have absolutely no idea what I do! Post-production isn’t something people outside the industry really talk about. But they can see how passionate I am about it, and they love that I love it—even if they don’t fully understand what it involves.

Chloe:

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Elena: 

Always listen to your team and to the people around you. Listening is everything.

Elena reminds us that post-production isn’t just about timelines and deliverables, it’s about people, stories, and shared effort. Whether in Milan, Rome, or beyond, her story shows how listening, teamwork, and a love of the craft keep the wheels turning in this invisible but essential part of the creative process.