A film set can involved a huge amount of crew, some specialist, some supportive. Some crew members will be present on set at all times, where as others may be involved in at specific times. Although many positions do not get any attention, most roles are very important to the production. Even a person who is assigned to keep microphone batteries charged, plays a role in the efficiency of the film process. The director often gets a lot of attention due to their creative imput and being a driving force in the project, but a film could not be produced without someone picking up the pieces elsewhere. There are many varied roles, some that I would see myself in, some that are interesting but stressful, others that I am simpy not suited for. It was interesting to get an understanding on each role as it could be an area I am interested in persuing in the future, or should focus my skills into that particular area when doing production.
Roles
1st Assistant Camera
The 1st Assistant Camera operators are responsible for maintaining and controlling the focus of the camera during filming. The camera or subjects may be moving, so the focus will need to be maintained on the subject. This position can be called a Focus Puller' as they role involves pulling focus of the camera. The 1st Assistant Camera may also may be involved in logistics of camera equipment and act as an assistant for the Camera Operator.
2nd Assistant Camera
The 2nd Assistant Camera operators are more involved in the technical side of the camera team. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the camera and various accessories are maintained and available. They will need to keep track of the equipment and keep a record of its location. An important responsible is to construct the camera rigs used during the filming. They have many small but vital responsibilities such as setting the actor and camera marks, keeping notes on each shot and most importantly, operating the clapboard....
1st Assistant Director
The 1st AD's most important role is arranging the shooting schedule. They will assign each scene to a specific time. They will schedule the scenes to ensure filming is as efficient as possible. Longer scenes require more time and shorter scenes can be scheduled around them. Multiple short scenes can be schedules for one day. On top of scheduling filming, they work on set to manage the process to make sure the filming is running to schedule. They will be asked to deal with any issues with effect the time schedule, such as problems with logistics. Therefore a 1st AD is extremely important to a film production. In film time=money. It's costs money to make films and each film will come with a budget. Everything to wages, to hiring of film space, will contribute to the costs. If the schedule is not met, the costs will go up and potentially blow the budget for the film. Hence why the AD needs to be very effective in their job.
2nd Assistant Director
The 2nd AD is most important duty is to create 'daily call sheets' The sheets contain information and details of the time and location of the scheduled film. The sheets are provided to cast and crew to ensure they are in the location as scheduled. It is important to ensure everyone is working from the same sheet, as even one absent cast/crew member could be impossible to replace and cause issues with the schedule. Everyone will still need to be paid even if no filming takes place. The 2nd AD will also act as a chaperone for the primary cast. They will escort them to each set and constantly keep them updated as they are needed. They will also often be involved in managing of any 'background they are required on set during the day of filming.
Art Director
Once the set has been designed the art director will be involved in overseeing the creation of the films sets. Each scene has been designed in accordance of the script and the Art Director takes the instruction and turns it into reality. Films can be vastly different and each detail will need to be considered. They will be at the construction of the set whether this is in a studio or on location. They typical work with a Set designer, but it if possible that both of these roles are integrated. The Art Director is also involved in the analysis of the script and will look are for details such as props or interesting features.
Art PA
The ART PA is an assistant for Set Designer. They mostly act as a runner, helping provide support for the designer. Their roles is more hands on and will aid with set construction and logistics. For example, they will be responsible for placing the props on set as directed in the set design.
Associate Producer
The Associate Producer is a varied and flexible position. They will have knowledge in various areas of production such as costume. They will assist a department that requires most support. Their position is somewhere between a technician and a manager, where by their job involves both crewing and also helping management arrangements of varying departments. Their job is mostly supportive, but is very important as they are a go between, a vector between departments and can provide support as and when required. I like the idea of this position, as it requires the knowledge of many skills, they get to work with many different people and departments, but also because it is a supportive role. They may be working in lighting one day and costume the next. Therefore the job can be very interesting and rewarding. A person who does not see them selves in a particular production or crewing role, could find they would make an ideal Associate Producer. The associate producer may be called upon in times of crisis so they will need to be able to work at short notice, always vigilante and also able to keep a clear head. A cool head and a productive work effect, will help ease the stress and panic of the affected department.
Best Boy
The Best Boy is part of the Lighting and Electrical department. They primarily assist the Key Grip and act as their right hand person.
Microphone operator (AKA 'The Boom Op')
In Film and one or more extended microphone are used during the film process,to allow the microphone to be closer to the actors. This is so the actors can be clearly heard without needing to be close to the camera. The boom microphone needs to be close enough to the actors for their voices to be audible, but the boom itself must never be visible on camera. They must also be aware of the camera angles being filmed at each time and may need to constantly readjust their position to ensure the boom remains out of the cameras eye. The boom is a total giveaway to the audience, but could be shown within a mockumentary type style film. The boom needs to be even vigilant, as the boom being in vision of the camera could cost an entire scene. The actors may have just delivered their finest acting display of their life and the boom was in shot. Or it was an extensive scene using various effects that now need to be reapplied. This will potentially effect the schedule and add costs, perhaps thousands for just one scene. It could also disturb the actors flow and focus into character if they have to re-repeat scene. The boom may seem like a simple job, but it requires immense skill and focus. I wouldn't like to do this job as I am more likely to get the boom in shot than forget my lines.
Caterer
The Crew and and even actors will require feeding. As the cast and crew are working within a schedule, catering services will be provided, particular on bigger budget productions. This is not just to ensure the cast and crew have enough calories to sustain them, its also more efficient for catering to be on location. Efficiency equals less costs, so hiring a catering team means everyone can be on set and eat on demand. The catering service will also cater for everyone's dietary needs, especially allergies and intolerances. Although this could seem trivial, its actually important when it comes to filming and scheduling. One cast or crew member that is ill because of eating something they are allergic to, could cost an entire days filming. All cast and crew will still need to be paid even if no filming takes place.
Camera Operator
Camera skill is important in filming. A camera operator will need knowledge and awareness of the operation of a camera and also the various angles involved in filming. The will be involved in direct operation of the camera and may be filming from various platforms, stands or using hand held cameras. The cameras operator will work closely with the Cinematographer and Director to capture the angles and distances that are required for each scene. They need to be skilled to ensure their actions are smooth and fluid. Their are many different camera types that a camera operator will need to be accustomed to. The camera operator and actors will also from a close working relationship, as they are able to help each other when being filmed from various angles. They are important to the film production process as their skill can create a more refined looking film. They also ensure the process is smooth.
Casting Director
The casting director is responsible for the cast for the film. Most often, the casting director will organise auditions, casting calls or review audition tapes. If they have cast members in mind, such as a known actor, they will also negotiate with them to see if they are interested in the role. The casting director gets a first glance on which actors will be cast. They may not get the final say on which actors are hired, but they will provide suggestions to the director. The casting director needs to understand the characters of the film in order to know if an actor is suited to the role. They may also be skilled in seeing what else an actor has to offer.
A casting director is an interesting role as they are in a position to recruit unknown talents and bring them to to films for the first time. This is probably why the casting couch exists as they can use their position to exploit actors who are desperate to get a part in a film.
Choreographer
The Choreographers role in film is generally different to that of stage. They will be responsible for any dance scenes used in a film. Quite often they will also be working with mostly actors, who may not be skilled or knowledgeable in dance. The choreographer their fore needs to be not only a dancer, but someone who is able to communicate to actors or non dancers. They will design a dance that may be specific to a scene or create dances that are part of the overall film. For example, a period drama may require scenes They will design the routines based on the directors vision. They may also be responsible for choreographing action and fight scenes, particularly if the scenes are more complex and elaborate. The role is extremely challenging, as the choreographer would need to be able to choreograph dances and action scenes, would need a wider range of styles of dance and could mostly be working with non dancers. They would require the ability to be able to replicate and train the require performers to the designed routine.
Costume Designer
The Costume Designer needs to be able to interpret to costume required from the script. They will have to design characters costume within the script such as the time period and location of the script. What was the fashions of the time? What type of clothing did a particular person from that era wear? If it is futuristic, they will need to be able to design costumes that meet the vision of the director. Once the costume designer has made their designs, they then need to source the costumes. The costume for background may already be available elsewhere in the wardrobe department, or for sale/hire. The costumes may be similar but may require some adjustments. However, the costumes may be bespoke or unsuitable, so the designer will also need to decide on the materials and provide details to the wardrobe department.
Craft Services
Craft Services provide non catered foodstuffs to the set. A 'crafty', a person who works in craft services, will take food stuffs such as fruit, snacks and bottled water, to the set in order to provide light nourishment. Thesis important as filming could go on longer than expectorated and the crew/cast may not have time to eat. Weather conditions can vary, so bottled water will need to be brought to the setup. This is an interesting role as although it is unskilled, simple job, that is not part of the actual production, it does provide access to the set. The person gets to see what is happening and may get to meet interesting people. For an actor, they may be able to network whilst working as a a simple crafty. I may even try this and find work in this role, either just as a crafty, or aiming to network.
Director
The director is the main driving force of the film particularly in the creative aspects. They will have ideas on the style of the film, the look, the feel, the characters. Where the scenes are set? They will guide the actors trough the scenes and provide orders for the camera. They will also be involved in analysing the script to gather details of the story, the characters, location, era. They will have been chosen by a producer, who believes that the director is the most suited to bringing their vision to life. However, before a director becomes a director for hire, they normally begin their careers by creating their own films and receiving investment from a 3rd party. The director may write their own script or work with an associated script writer. They may receive external funding, self fund or pitch the concept to a producer. They may have a short film version of their idea, a trailer, some scenes, actors who will play various characters. The director may ensemble a cast and self produce the cast on a very small budget. Eventually, their film is picked up and becomes mainstream. Once they have directed one successful film, they have more options as a director. Some directors may be able to reinvest, on successful films and become self producers. Others will work with various production companies to produce their own film (director driven) visions, or be part of alternative (producer driven) film projects. Many directors start as actors, and regardless of success, later become directors. A director needs to understand acting and acting styles, even if they are not an acting. A director will most likely to be skilled and knowledgable in all areas of production, even performing and script. Being a director can be very stressful role. They bear a lot of responsibility for the success of the production. They are integral to the quality of the performance, the camera, the editing. If they fail at these and the film bombs, the director can cost the production company millions of pounds and potentially, that's their career over. I like the role of director as I am interested in directing self produced films and plays. However, I am unsure, even if I had the ability, that I would want to direct as a career choice.
Dolly Grip
The dolly grip is involved to setting up the dolly for camera shots. Before shooting a track needs to be laid the the dolly to move on. The dolly is used for different angles such as pull in/out or tracking shots. The transition needs to be smooth for fluidity in the filming. Therefore the Dolly Grip needs to ensure the
Director of Photography/Cinematographers
The cinematographer is involved in the creative team for the production. They are they will work closely with the director and camera team. They will also be involved with the lighting and grip departments so ensure the lighting is setup as required. The Cinematographer will use their skills in camera and artistic interpretation in combination with the directors vision. They will have decide which are the best camera angles and lighting conditions for each scene. The role of a Cinematographer has evolved overtime. In the past camera's were not as portable and were extremely limited I function. With technology, they are able to add greater artistic creativity to the production. The quality of the camera angles and lighting can be the difference between an amateurish and highly refined film. The cinematographer will require a number of skills, particular in the areas of lighting and camera. They will need to a very creative person with an eye for detail. They will need good communication and management skills as they are working with different departments
Driver
The driver is involved in logistics of a production. Their role is to transport film equipment, props, costumes, scenery, or whatever needs to be moved, to different filming locations. This could be from location to location, or studio to location. They are similar to a white van person, but they will be hired by production and have experience handling film equipment and props. The driver will be very busy, because a film crew will always need more stuff. However, their will be some down time and this may provide networking opportunities.
Electrician
The electricians are part of the grip department, and overseen by 'the gaffer' (Head Grip). The electricians are involved in rigging lights, running cables and making sure the equipment has power. On top of general electrical skill, they will require some knowledge of setting up film equipment such as lighting.
Entertainment Lawyer
The entrainments lawyer is similar to a job of a solicitor but they will be most knowledgable in entertainment law. The lawyer will be involved in negotiating important contracts such as with sponsors or high profile cast members. Due to many legal cases involved in filming, such as on set accidents, health and safety being broken, scandals and contract disputes, the lawyer will be called upon to provide legal advice to the Producer.
Executive Producer
In film, the Executive Producer does not normally play any direct involvement in the production process. The producer may not be able to provide all the resources to the production, so they will look for others to assist them financially. Executive Producers are a 3rd party outsider who invest financially in the production, but will not provide creative input. This is normally because they are interested in bringing the production to life. Executive Producers can often be a higher profile name who is not involved in the production. Their name brings attention to what could be a low profile film. The executive may also be an actor of director, who self invest in the film, but are working with a production company. Being and Executive Producer requires someone to have money to play with. Their investment is risky, there is no guarantee a film will make a profit, so the investment has to be considered one that is also personal.
Film Loader
Originally, cameras used actual film during the production process. The film was finite and would eventually need to be replaced. The film loader would be assigned the role of replacing the camera magazines, which held the film on the camera. The magazines would need to be replaced as quickly and safely as possible. They would also reload the magazine and store the exposed film in a dark room.
With Digital Technology, the role has slightly changed. They will still need retrieve film recorded onto SD cards, but this is less frequent. Their responsibilities is mostly to make download, copy and backup the date from the cards. The cards can then be returned to the camera crew. This job is important for the efficiency
Gaffer
The Gaffer or Key Grip is head of the Grip and Electrical department. Their role involves them becoming a link between the Cinematographer and Grip department. They will work closely with the cinematographer to ensure that the lighting and other electrical equipment is set up within line of their vision. The gaffer will need to be an experienced electrician and film technician, especially lighting and camera rigging. They will need good personal management skills and also have an understanding of the film making process.
Th e Gaffer is an important role during the production as they will need to communicate the needs of the Cinematographer to the Grip department I order to set up lighting and camera in the required locations. They need to ensure the equipment is secure and also powered at all times to prevent delays in filming. They also need to be aware that they need to ask the department to equipment position at any time.
Grip
During the film production process, the Grip department is responsible for the setting up the camera and lighting equipment. They may also lay wiring and construction of rigs to create platforms for cameras. The Grip department are skilled in electricals and setting up film equipment. Grips also handle the logistics for the equipment they may need to use during filming. This is not the film equipment, but their own tools. As they are often working on location, they will need to keep track of the tools and make sure they have all necessary tools available.
Hair Stylist
Hair stylists are responsible for styling the actors hair, or wigs that the actors use during production. The hair/wig will need to be styled to the vision on the director, such as being of a particular era or colour. During production, the stylist will also be responsible in ensuring the actors hair style is kept consistent throughout. This is important as scenes need to be consistent, the the style will need to be identical. The process of filming can take many months, so the actors hair will grow during this time. It is often typical, especially with larger production, that several stylists will be used during production. The stylist will need to have skills beyond a high street stylist as they will need to be able to achieve styles from many different eras and even completely alter the actors hair with wigs, extensions and dyes.
Key Production Assistant
The Key PA is the main link between high level crew such as directors, and other departments. They will relay messages to the PA's, who provide instructions or requests to other departments. ON a film set, efficiency is key, so the PA's job is to pass the messages across the line asap. They are able to personally hand details
Line Producer
The Line Producer manages the budget that has been raised or allocated to the production. Before production begins, the Line Producer will help the producer work out a budget for filming. This budget serves as a target when the produces looks to raise funds for the production. Their roles also includes hiring the crew with will take on a considerable part of the budget. The Line Producers would require financial skills such as accountancy or budgeting. They would need to be aware of the rates of wages and additional costs involved with filming. Their role has many similarities with the Directors Assistant, where they are involved in the scheduling of the production. The role is essential in films, as films are notorious for going over budget. It is also difficult to turn a profit on a film. The Line Producer ensures every area of the production is covered by the budget, that the budget is managed to keep costs down and the filming runs the schedule.
Location Manager
The Location manager is an interesting position that allows them to travel to find locations for filming. The Manager is more than just a scout, as they will be involved the process to allow filming to occur in that location. There may be various obstacles, such as getting permission from the council or negotiating hire from land or building owners.
When looking for locations the scouts and manager may be assigned to find a particular location for a certain style of film. They may be looking for industrial land, a woodland or a mountain. Obviously anyone and visit places and see it in a film. However, is the location suitable for filming? Ideally, the locations will need to be accessible but also quiet. There are industrial sites all over the country, but are there any that are abandoned? What is the style and condition of the buildings? IS it away from public? Is there a quiet/unused road or street that can be used for car driving scenes? These subtle details are what make the location ideal for film, not just its artistic appearance.
Location Scout
The location scout is assigned to find the locations used in productions. They will normally work with the location manager to help them find and negotiate the use of the site. Once they have found what may be a suitable site, they will also need to make details of the site and use photographs as reference.
If I do not end up going onto any other role in show business, either as a performer, coach, or crew, I would like to work as a Location Scout. It is interesting because it allows travel to varied and unique places. It allows exploration with purpose and reward.
Makeup Artist
A production will require the actors to be in makeup for their characters. Makeup is needed by actors when performing on film or stage. This is because of the effects lighting and camera can have on the actors appearance. They will need makeup that prevents glare, for example. Makeup in films can also be more varied to that of everyday life. For example, stories are varied and can be from different eras. Performances are also fictional, so can contain an array of different creatures such as Zombies, aliens or Monsters. The makeup process will also involve the use of latex or prosthetics. These are used to further alter the appearance of the performer. The makeup artist would use latex to create gaping wounds of change the face. Prosthetics are used in place of limbs, particularly when the character is severely injured. Makeup will be involved in ensuring the prosthetic looks as realistic as possible.
Therefore, the makeup artist would require skills beyond a high street beautician. The role is interesting as the artist in involved in the visual style of the performance. Their work is clear and visible on screen. I enjoy doing makeup when if it is for monster type performances.
On-Set Editor
The On-Set editor works closely with the director during filming. They may may also double as a VTR Operator (shows director live recordings on set). This role is helpful for the director, as editing can be lone live, which allows a better understanding if the film will work with the other shots. Any problems with the film can be quickly recognised and rectified. Any changes can be made whilst they are already in progress of filming. This can avoid the need for expensive recalls, that have potential to cause delays for the process. An On-Set Editor is therefore extremely beneficial for production, particularly for helping the directors make quick decisions and keeping the film production in schedule.
Production Assistant
The PA is a bottom of the ladder role in production, and work for the Key PA. The PA will be delegated tasks which have been sent from each department. They are vital cogs in the machine, as their role is supportive and ensures requests are being sent along the chain. PA's need to be effective communicators as they will work with a number of departments and pass information between them.
Producer
A producer is often the driving force behind the concept of a film. They are responsible for hiring key personnel such as the director, choreographer, designers and writers.
They will work closely with the director when hiring personnel for each role as the director will need to understand if they are the right person for the role. The producer and director will have their own vision of the film most of the time the final is somewhere in-between. The final release will down to the approval of the producer. There are also directors cut version, which is is the directors approved version. This will add or alter scenes in the film, possibly with an alternative ending. IT is normally longer and made for video release. A producer therefore has a lot of say in the creative style of the film, but most of the interpretation will be down to the director. It is vital that the producer and director form a good relationship as otherwise, this will likely cause problems with the production process.
The producer will take on the burden of raising funds for a film once a budget has been set. A producer may be able to invest some of the funds for a film, but generally will seek additional investment from Executives, Financiers or Bank Loans. They are involved in working to promote the film. They will hire a marketing team to promote the film. In smaller productions, a producers role is normally more diverse and will probably include some crewing. Producers are now often actors who create their own work and invest in the films to bring them to an audience.
A producer will be a person who wants to make films, but they do not not want to be in it. Potentially, they will have skills and experience in all areas of production as they would have started off self producing films. They will have used camera, done the location work, directed performances, wrote a script. Therefore, even though a producer is involved financially, they do have artistic vision and knowledge in film. A producer will understand what sells, what an audience wants, how long a film should be. They need to be able to make a profit on the film, regardless of the directors intentions. A 4 hour film for example, would not be attractive to a mainstream audience even if it has artistic merit. A producer therefore an artistic person with a business like ethic.
Production Designer
A production designer is an integral part of the set design process. Not only are they involved with ensuring the set is dressed for filming, they are part of construction and design of the set. They are also involved in finding locations for filming and reviewing if the location is ideal for filming. A production Designer would essentially be a combination of a Set Designer and Location Scout. They would require skills of both and would play a hands on role in the production process. This role is important as their work is visual and can change the effect of a scene. I like the idea of this role as it they are able to work on set, have some creative input, and also do location as part of their responsibilities.
Prop Master
A film production will use a number a props during the film process. The Prop Master is responsible for the props used in a film. They will be provided a list of props needed for the film and they will need to either purchase, hire, construct or search archives for the desired props. They will also need to manage the props, keeping track to ensure the props do not go missing and are available as required. They will need to duplicate or replace props that are likely to be damaged. The prop master will need a good understanding of the films style and story to ensure they are able to provide accurate props. Not only may the props be historical, but they may also be completely fictional.
Prosthetics Designer
The prosthetics designer works within the hair and makeup, and special FX department. They are irrepressible for designing and applying the prosthetics used in films. The prosthetics may be simple and used to change an actors appearance. The prosthetics may be need to be replace an actors arm where a character receives a severe injury. They may even need to turn performers in a variation of different creatures.
Screenwriter
The screen writer is the person who has written the original script for the film. Often a producer or director will pick up on the script and look to produce the film. The script could be a classic remake or an entirely new script. Often the screen writer may be associated with a particular director or producer and will work frequently with them to make new films.
A screenwriter may be involved beyond pre-production. They may work closely with the director on set, to make changes to the script in real time. Either the director has their own idea, an actor may have improvised a new line, or the script doesn't work during filming, the script writer will be on hand to re-write the script. The changes will need to be in accordance with the remaining story or the change needs to be then reflected into the whole script. It's very rare that a script will remain to the words of the original during the performance. This is true in both film and theatre. The changes are made because they do not work in performance, or because a changes that occur naturally in practice. It is Laos possible that the screen writer, is an actor or director who are looking to create their own work or have their own ideas for a film.
Script Supervisor
The script supervisor is involved in the continuity of shots in a scene. Continuity means that for example, in each shot of the scene, a prop is in the correct position during each shot. They need attention to detail to ensure that there are not inconsistencies between scenes.
Set Decorator
The set decorator will for the furniture and décor used during the production. Each scene in the film will be off a theme or style so the Decorator needs to find suitable furniture to be used in regards to the context the scene. The Set Decorator works closely with the Set Dresser, whose job is to then use the furniture the Decorator has chosen and place them in the set. However, it is possible that these roles are combined on lower budget, independent films. The furniture will need to be arrange stylistically, but also in line with camera and performers. Their could be a short time between filming and the dresser will need to be punctual and precise.
Sound Assistant
The sound assistant is a support role with the Sound department. They work closely with the boom operator and sound mixer. Their role is not as technical as other positions but can be more varied. They are involved in less technical responsibilities such as changing batteries, providing lavalier (portable) microphones to actors or even keeping the sound equipment tidy. However, the Assistant may cover as a second boom operator for scenes where an actors dialogue is recorded off camera. Although less technical, this role is important for the efficiency of the filming process. A microphone without power can disrupt filming, or cause issues later found in editing. The assistant ensures that this minor technicalities are dealt with before they become a problem. They are on hand to resolve the problem quickly, allowing a specialist to focus on their work. An efficient and organised assistant can save time and therefore money, during a films production.
Sound Mixer
The sound mixer is mostly involved in tuning the microphones on the set and are head of the on set sound crew. Each microphone has different sensitivities, will be in different proximities to the actor. Each microphone needs to be mixed together into one clear sound. The mixer will ensure that each microphone's volume is in tune with the others. This is important as when the actors walk around the scene the volume will change. The audio needs to be seamless between each unit of a scene. The Sound Mixer will work in real time to ensure that the actors volume does not fluctuate between loud and quiet as the film progresses. A sound mixer is an extremely important role in the film production process as the quality of the recorded sound is integral to the quality of a film. The sound mixer has responsibilities beyond the set. They will visit set locations and check for sound properties of the set. The properties of the set can alter the sound and the mixer will adjust this into the film recording. The mixer also decides on which equipment they will need to use for the film and also is involved in hiring a sound team for the production.
Special Effects Coordinator
Films use various Special FX during production, either to mimic some real world incident, or an imagined scenario. The Special Effects Coordinator, is not involved in post production, but the actual, live, creation of special FX during filming. There are many effects that can be achieved in real time, which avoids the need to use CGI. Typical FX that may be used in a performance include pyrotechnics and animatronics. The FX coordinator may be asked to set up scenes where an explosion occurs, or even control an alien creature. These effects not only require skill, but can also be potentially dangerous. The coordinator will need to be aware of the dangers and understand how to create controlled explosions. They will need to be able to coordinate the actions of performer with the FX and ensure that they meet their queues.
SPFX Makeup Designer
Many films will requires the use of SPFX makeup during a production. The makeup is used for many reasons, either to physically alter the appearance of the actor, to show serious inures to a character or even gore used in Zombie films. SPFX Makeup Designer works the makeup department to design and implement these FX. The hey day for this role was probably in the 80's due to the style of the films, the various directors who used or pioneered this technology in their films. CGI has now replaced SPFX makeup in many regards, especially now the technology has improved and become commercially available. However, there is still a place for SPFX and it is normally used WITH CGI to enhance the film. IN the modern Star Wars Productions, models and full scale props are still used in the film process. They will use the models wherever possible and add CGI in to enhance the scene. Lucas arts were also pioneers of the use of scale models in films. There are also times when SPFX is more suitable than CGI. For example, in the Aliens in the original alien films to look more realistic than its modern counterpart. They used lighting and various FX to make the creature look more realistic even though it was a simple cast model. There is a trend to using SPFX when possible as it generally still looks more realistic (than CGI) if done well.
Stunt Coordinator
The Stunt Coordinator manages the stunt department. During filming they will be provides details of the actions of the scene. They will make a plan that shows how the stunt is to be performed. It is important that the stunt is achievable and can be performed safely. The stunt Coordinator will also take the stunt performer through the process to ensure they are fully prepared for the routine. The Stunt Coordinator is most likely an experienced stunt performer who now runs their own stunt company. They will require a good understanding of how stunts are involved, especially when the performers are placed in dangerous situations. They will be aware of the protective equipment and the physics involved in the stunt. If the stunt is a high speed driving scene, the coordinator will need to understand the limitations of the equipment and performer.
Stunt Performer
Many films require the use of stunt performers for dangerous scenes that may provide risk of injury to an actor. Even a broken wrist can severely effect filming, as the actor will need to wear a cast for several weeks. Therefore, the actor can not be involved in scenes where their wrist is shown or are required to use their hands. Stunt performers are therefore pivotal as they are able to perform the dangerous stunts in place of actors and they are less likely to get injured due to training. Being stunt performer obviously has risks and only a person with a certain mindset and physicality should ever consider becoming a stunt performer. A hole range of stunts could be asked of the stunt performer, such as falling, driving, horse riding, climbing, immolation, being mauled by animals, being hit and whatever else is asked of them.
Stunt performers may have all the skills, but they will be chosen on their build and appearance, to ensure they match a closely as possible to the actor. IN a scene the stunt performer will wear the characters clothes over safety equipment. Makeup will work to make the performer resemble the actor. During filming, the camera will be mostly use angles that show the stunt performer from the rear or side. However, with technology it is possible to impose the actors face onto the stunt performer during post production.
A stunt double is an example of a stunt performer, who bears resemblance to a particular actor. The double will work with that particular actor for all of their films. The double will share many physical attributes with the actor such as build, ethnicity and facial features. They may also train to move like the actor so the switch is less noticeable. Some actors may also refuse stunt doubles and perform most if not all of their own stunts. However, this is risky and if there is a risk of minor injury that can delay filming doubles should be used.
Transportation Coordinator
As filming is often done on location a person will be assigned to manage transportation for the cast and crew. The production is run to a tight schedule so vehicles will be arranged to carry the cast and crew to the location. The vehicles may be buses, coaches, planes or taxis, the quality of the transport probably depends on position and scale of the production. It is important that everyone is on set for the same time as to avoid delays in filming. The process also helps ensure that everyone makes it to the set and avoids and individuals responsibility. The role is important as filming is expensive and run to a tight schedule. The Transportation Coordinator is essential in the process, particular on larger productions, with many locations. The position would require management and communication skills. They would be arranging travel for all of the cast and crew and also need to make each individual aware of the arrangements.
Unit Production Manager
The filming process involves a lot of paper work. A lot of this paper work are the contracts with each crew member. There could be hundreds of crew, some of which work only on a short term. The UPM is responsible for dealing with this pile of paper work. They will also have to make a report (Production Report) each day that includes details such as who was on set, their time, their contracted wage, cost of materials, delays, accidents and additional costs. The UPM is an important job, as they ensure that the the crew are being paid correctly for their work, but their details also help to check to see if the production is running within budget and schedule. If you enjoy working with accounts and doing loads paper work, this is the job for you.
VFX Supervisor
The VFX is a part of Post Production but they are required on set to oversee filming. Their role is to see that there are not problems during filming that may cause problems or additional challenges during post-production. Various FX will be added during the post production process so they will work with the film crew to ensure the effects can be applied. It may require that the filmed is filmed differently, small parts of the scene uses more angles. The VFX supervisor is also responsible for ensuring the Filming and Post Production are working within the same schedule. Post-Production is reliant on what scenes have been filmed before they can work. They will only be required once their has been some filming. Therefore, the VFX will plan the schedule Post Production around the Film process and ensure the film process is working to schedule. Both sets need to be working in sync with each other, as during filming, the teams will feed each other during the process. The VFX will need to be knowledgable of the Post-Production and filming process, as they are responsible for planning the schedule. VFX Supervisor also needs to have good personnel and time management skills. They will need to be very organised and and prepared to push buttons if the process if not running smoothly.
Video Assist Operator
The Video Assist Operator or 'VTR' (Video Tape Recorder) work with the director and camera on a film set. They are responsible for providing an onset playback of recorded footage. The director can review the recording and then make decisions based on the film. They may be happy, or most likely, want to make a change in the film, either light, camera or action. The role is important as the director is able to make clearer changes now, rather than having to refilm later.
Weapons Wrangler/ Armourer
Many films require the use of weapons, whether modern or historic. This could be handheld weapons such as swords, but generally, in modern film, they are handling firearms aka Guns. The firearms can range from dummy props to blank firing weapons. However, sometimes the use of live ammo is required for artistic purposes. This is potentially dangerous (see Rust), so the Armourer needs to track all weapons and ammo, to ensure there are no accidents on set.
The Armourer will require knowledge on weapons of various eras and also their operation. They will also need to be able to train an actor in the safe operation of the firearm. During filming, the firearm should be only be handled by the armourer and the actor using that particular weapon. Although blank firing rounds do not fire a projectile, they can still cause serious injury when fired from close range. The gun will need to be in safety mode at all times except during the moment when they are fired.
The Rust incident has brought a lot of attention to this role and how a momentary loss in focus could cause serious accident. Regardless who who is too blame for the accident, most of the responsibility will fall upon the armourer, as they are the ones responsible for providing the weapons and ammunition. If a live round is mixed into the blank firing rounds, or had been left in the gun from previous use, this error in responsibility falls upon the armourer. As
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