Experiences and Hierarchy in Film Shoots

Working on a film shoot can be an exhilarating but demanding experience. The environment and working conditions are quite rigorous, starting with the first morning call and meticulously structured throughout the day. If you aspire to be part of this exciting and challenging industry, understanding the roles, responsibilities, and hierarchy involved is crucial.

Preparation and Arrival

The day begins early on a film set, with crew and speaking actors needing to be at the studio well before dawn. Typically, the shoot day spans 12 to 16 hours, leaving little room for tardiness. Only break time, usually one hour, is provided for lunch, and you’ll have to purchase your own food. The setup and logistics of a film shoot are intricate, involving a multitude of roles and responsibilities that define the working atmosphere.

Work Environment and Responsibilities

Studio rules and union protocols predominantly govern the day. Distribution of roles is often specialized and predefined; the most privileged are the Director, script supervisor, and key actors who receive chairs. For everyone else, trailers or dressing rooms provide a place to unwind temporarily.

The crew, particularly those not in speaking roles, spend the majority of the day on their feet. Even the camera operator, in some circumstances, has to stand throughout the day if boom arms and special remote rigs are in use. However, there are specialized roles to consider: camera operators can never move lighting power cords, even if it’s their union card allows it. They must similarly ensure that lights are secured and stable, being the only ones who can turn lights on and off. This level of detail ensures that specific tasks are always performed by those most qualified, enhancing the overall efficiency and quality of production.

Role-Based Hierarchies

The flow of communication and decision-making is hierarchical. Speaking actors have fewer constraints compared to non-speaking crew members. When off set, speaking actors are permitted to explore their dressing rooms or trailers between setup changes unless the director or first assistant director (1st AD) requires them to stay on set. Crew, excluding speaking actors, must adhere to the guidance of the 1st AD, who commands the crew, while the 2nd AD manages the extras.

Ingenuity and common sense are essential, especially for non-union employees or subcontractors. For example, if a star requests a move, that action must often be approved by the 1st AD to ensure continuity and compliance with the shoot’s plan. Clear communication within a film set, especially between the 1st and 2nd ADs, the Director, the producer, and the crew, is pivotal to maintaining the production workflow.

General Rules and Regulations

Cell phones must be turned off except during lunch time to maintain the necessary concentration and efficiency in the environment. The craft services table is typically open for anyone to use, fostering a sense of camaraderie among crew members and adjusting to the fast-paced nature of film production.

Understanding these key roles and the hierarchical structure can significantly enhance any individual's experience and effectiveness on a film set. It highlights the meticulous organization needed in the film industry, ensuring that all elements of a shoot contribute cohesively toward the final product.

Conclusion

Embarking on a film shoot is a thrilling yet complex journey through diverse responsibilities and detailed protocols. By familiarizing yourself with the various roles, hierarchies, and regulations, you can better navigate the environment, contribute effectively, and enjoy the unique and varied experiences that come with this dynamic industry.