Director
- The creating driving force of the film, defining the visual style and structure of the film
- Selects the actors and works closely with them on their performance
- Director visualises and works with all creative elements of the film from casting, script revisions to shot composition and editing
Overview
A Director will bring the story to life from page to screen. They will visualise the film and be responsible for it’s artistic translation onto screen. It is the Director’s unique interpretation of the story and characters that shape a film. All Directors have their own way of working however ultimately the style, pace and impact of the film is dictated by the director. During post-production the Director works closely with the editor to ensure their vision is seen through to the final film.
First AD
- Being the Director’s right-hand person, taking responsibility for a number of important practicalities so that the Director is free to concentrate on the creative process
- Breaking down the script into a shot-by-shot storyboard, working with the Director to determine the shoot order, and how long each scene will take to film
- Drawing up the shooting schedule (a timetable for the filming) and making sure it’s kept to
Overview
The 1st Assistant Director will work with the Producer or Production Manager and the Director to create a shooting schedule. The 1st AD breaks down the script in pre-production and assists in managing the schedules of the crew, talent and equipment. Occasionally the 1st AD might direct the background extras. They will take control of the logistic sides to allow the Director to concentrate solely on the creative aspect. The 1st AD usually has a team of AD’s working under them. On set they keep the film on schedule and ensure that everyone is ready for the Director’s cue. They are also responsible for health and safety on set.
Second AD
- Being the First Assistant Director’s right-hand person
- Preparing and drawing up the ‘call sheet’ (a document with daily filming logistics, distributed to cast and crew)
- Overseeing the cast, ensuring that the principal Actors are in make-up, in wardrobe, or standing by on the set at the correct times
Overview
The Second Assistant Director’s main role is to make sure that the First ADs orders are carried out on set. The Second AD will create the call sheet for the next day and distribute them to the cast and crew. On set, the Second AD must make sure that all the Actors are ready for filming and have gone through hair and makeup.
Other Assistant Directors
In British and Canadian film systems there might be 3rd ADs who take instruction from the 2nd and 1st ADs. In the American system they are known as 2nd 2nd ADs and usually are assigned the role of controlling big crowds of extras and keeping the public at a distance on location shoots.
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