Navigating the Film Set: Dos and Don'ts for Non-Crew Members

When you find yourself on a film set, it can be an exhilarating and sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you're a person observing from the sidelines, an intern, or assisting on a team, it's crucial to understand how to behave to ensure the smooth running of production and the overall success of the project. This article delves into the dos and don'ts of being on a film set, offering tips from the perspective of someone who has experience as an assistant director.

The Importance of Being Mindful

A film set is a highly active and dynamic environment where everyone is working towards a common goal. It's essential to be mindful of your role and to behave appropriately so as not to disrupt the workflow. Unless you're actively participating in the production, the best policy is to remain unobtrusive and essentially invisible. This means observing silently and respectfully, avoiding unnecessary movement, and ensuring you don't draw attention to yourself.

Key Behavioral Guidelines

Be Quiet and Respectful. When filming or rehearsal is in progress, it's important to maintain complete silence. Additionally, be mindful of the actors' sight lines to avoid distracting them. Keeping your movements to a minimum also helps maintain the integrity of the scene.

Safely Stay Back. If you're observing from a distance, it's best to stay back from the set itself. The craft services table is typically an appropriate and safe location from which to watch. Respect the designated crew and cast chairs and avoid sitting in them unless invited. This not only shows professional courtesy but also allows for unobstructed workflow.

Offer Feedback Sparingly. If you do find yourself positioned to offer feedback or assistance, remember to do so only if it's been requested. Professional feedback is best solicited from the team leaders, not self-assigned. This ensures that your input is valuable and actually useful.

Specific Roles and Responsibilities

Assistant Directors (AD). An AD overseeing crowd/traffic control should keep their back to the set, as disturbances and challenges are usually external to the set itself. An AD responsible for background action needs to ensure that the backdrop and supporting actors are in sync with the main action, keeping the focus on the actors and the story being told.

First Assistant Director (1st AD). This role involves a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including continuous monitoring of the director's requirements and actors' schedules. The 1st AD is crucial in ensuring that everyone is ready for their shots, that all deliveries are made on time, and that the workflow moves smoothly.

Basecamp AD. This position involves a focus on logistics, ensuring that actors and extras are prepared for each shot, meals and breaks are provided according to contract and legal requirements, and that all team members are aware of the immediate plans and what's next in the production.

The Film Set as a Collaborative Ballet

Ultimately, the film set is a carefully orchestrated ballet of intertwined and often competing responsibilities and artistic visions. While it's crucial to know the dos and don'ts, it's equally important to appreciate the hard work and talent of the artisans and skilled laborers making the magic happen. Always approach the set with respect, a willingness to learn, and a clear understanding of your role and its impact on the production.

Conclusion

Understanding the dos and don'ts of behavior on a film set is key to contributing positively to the production process. Whether you're a casual observer or an essential part of the team, your approach can make all the difference in ensuring a successful and harmonious film set environment.