Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1544300
M OT I O N P I CTU R E S O U N D E D I TO R S 3 Hello MPSE members, welcome to the Spring 2026 issue of Wavelength—our Golden Reel Awards edition! Congratulations to all this year's nominees and winners. As always, our deepest thanks go to MPSE Executive Director Tracie Costabile Dumm and her outstanding team, as well as the incredible staff at The Ebell. Be sure to read Tracie's "From the Office" for a full recap of the evening, and then turn to the winners' section (page 42) to celebrate this year's honorees. Among the evening's many memorable moments were the Filmmaker Award presentation to Kathleen Kennedy and the heartfelt introduction by her friend and collaborator, the one-and- only, Ben Burtt. His remarks set the tone for a truly special tribute, and Kathleen's acceptance speech was equally gracious and inspiring. One quote in particular stood out: "What I love most about sound designers and editors is your curiosity. You're the only people I know who can hear the scrape of a toilet lid and think, 'That's it! That's the sound of the Ark of the Covenant opening!' You find the extraordinary in the ordinary." Another highlight of the night was the presentation of the Career Achievement Award to Mark Mangini, introduced by his longtime friend, director/producer Gavin O'Connor. Gavin shared a series of memorable and often moving stories that captured both Mark's career and character. Mark's acceptance speech was nothing short of inspiring—an expression of gratitude, humility, and deep appreciation for his peers. He spoke of those who gave him his start and those who have supported him throughout his journey, and he encouraged all of us to extend those same opportunities to the next generation. As he left the stage, he closed with a line that drew both laughter and applause: "I'm not finished yet!" (Thankfully). Solange Schwalbe MPSE was one such fortunate graduate who Mark gave her start to in her sound career. Solange interviews Mark in this issue's cover story. Their conversation offers a candid look at his early years, his remarkable body of work, and the personal challenges that shaped his path. As for the title of the article—sometimes inspiration strikes at just the right moment. After hearing Gavin O'Connor refer to Mark as "Manginius," the choice became obvious. You can find "Manginius" on page 18. We hope you enjoy this issue, which in addition to our award winners and photos from the event, is filled with stories that celebrate craft, creativity, and community. As always, our goal is to entertain, enlighten, educate, and inspire. Until next quarter, thank you for reading. CHRISTINA HORGAN MPSE Editor I MPSE Wavelength LETTER FROM THE EDITOR "If you're lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it." –John Irving 2026 Board of Directors & Officers L-R: Mark Camperell, David Barber (President), Paulette Victor Lifton, Brent Findley (Interim Secretary), Solange Schwalbe (Sergeant at Arms), Timothy Day, Christina Horgan (outgoing Board member & ongoing Wavelength editor in chief), Christopher Reeves (Treasurer), Garrett Montgomery, Korey Pereira (Vice President), Phillip Kovats, Eric Marks (outgoing VP), Charles Maynes. (Not pictured: Peter Albrechtsen, Brian Armstrong, Alex Borquez, Baylon Fonseca, Eric Gillingham, Kevin Howard, Howard Karp, Perry La Marca, Mark Lanza, Timothy Muirhead, Nicholas Papaleo, Vickie Sampson.)