Episoder
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Production Coordinator Chris Bryant talks about set paperwork and organization techniques, vetting and managing crew, and general leadership principles to help you advance in physical production.
Show notes from this episode:
-Chris Bryant on IMDb: shorturl.at/adsD7
-What is Station 12?
https://www.sagaftra.org/files/production_checklist_theatrical_television_4_7_2.pdf
https://www.sagaftra.org/station-12-information-form
-The range of low to high budget options with SAG/AFTRA:
https://www.sagaftra.org/production-center/contract/813/getting-started
-Forced Call:
https://www.sagaftra.org/rest-periods-forced-calls-0
-Skins: https://needlegirlhaystackworld.com/day-in-the-lifeproduction-assistant-pt1/
https://goingforpicture.tumblr.com/post/77239799865/background-action-a-guide-to-handling-bg-on
-Sides: https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/script-sides/
-Hot Costs: https://filmproduction.wordpress.com/2019/06/16/daily-hot-costs-becoming-a-key-film-production-accountant/
-And to really go into the weeds…
https://blog.castifi.com/the-producers-guide-to-overtime-and-penalty-payments
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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Today on the show we’re bringing back one of our most popular guests, Production Coordinator Chris Bryant, to talk about how to build rapport with vendors. Whether for equipment, locations, catering, special effects, transportation, you name it — vendors are at heart of making a movie possible. Chris’s role in the production office is crucial for developing and maintaining good relationships with them and making sure things work smoothly. He also shares insights and best practices about rental agreements, insurance, and handling loss and damage.
Show notes from this episode:
Chris Bryant on IMDb: shorturl.at/adsD7
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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Mangler du episoder?
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In Part 2 of our conversation with AD extraordinaires David Webb and Jeremy Marks, we talk about casting and blocking background, the importance of experts and technical advisors, and how the AD department contributes to authenticity in the filmmaking process. They share stories and best practices from the front lines of their work, including an incident that illustrates what happens when you have real cops and mobsters on a Martin Scorsese film!
Show notes from this episode:
Show notes from this episode:
-David Webb on IMDb: www.imdb.com/name/nm0002833/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2
-Jeremy Marks on IMDb: www.imdb.com/name/nm1317404/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
-Grant Wilfley Casting: https://tinyurl.com/yxd6q353
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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Today on the show we talk about the working relationship between the 1st and 2nd Assistant Directors. We’re excited to have 1st AD David Webb back on the show with us. He was our guest back on episode 2, where he talked about his work on The Irishman, Joker, Argo, Into the Wild, and Silence. Joining him today is Jeremy Marks, 2nd AD on a lot of the same films as David, along with many other notable projects like Bridge of Spies, The Revenant, The Post, Ocean’s 8, and West Side Story. These industry veterans share their best practices for effective communication, scheduling, and how to problem solve throughout production. Jeremy also expounds on his experience in the DGA training program and advice for advancing your career in production.
Show notes from this episode:
-David Webb on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0002833/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2
-Jeremy Marks on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1317404/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
-DGA West Coast Assistant Directing Training Program: https://www.trainingplan.org/
-DGA New York Assistant Directing Training Program: https://dgatrainingprogram.org/
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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On today’s episode, we talk with DGA 1st Assistant Director Damian Payne about set safety — specifically the importance of safety meetings and how 1st ADs prepare and execute them on set. Damian shares insights on general safety principles that all crew members can foster and maintain and how to address safety issues starting early in pre-production. He points to invaluable safety resources, such as the Contract Services safety bulletins and the safety checklist from “The Jefford’s Rules.” He also recalls the tragic fate of Sarah Jones from the Midnight Rider train incident, encouraging all crew members to take seriously our shared responsibility to do things the right way and keep each other safe. No matter what department you’re in, this episode highlights vital practices that will help us all keep safety at the top of our minds.
Show notes from this episode:
-Damian Payne: http://damianpayne.com/
-Contract Services Safety Bulletins: https://tinyurl.com/yyowth3e
-Studio Safety Hotlines: https://tinyurl.com/y6ncmxz7
-The Jeffords Rules PDF: https://tinyurl.com/yyxfrw85
-Sarah Jones, Midnight Rider tragedy: https://tinyurl.com/yykso2kp
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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How can you stay organized during production? On set, you’re constantly faced with the challenge of how to simultaneously prepare for tomorrow, wrap out yesterday, and execute what’s being shot today. The 2nd Assistant Director is in the center of that storm, supervising all set paperwork, managing talent and background, and leading their team effectively. Today on the show we’re talking to DGA 2nd AD Ian Campbell, about how to keep all those plates spinning. Ian dives deep into best practices for set paperwork, communication with cast and crew, and what to look for when hiring your team. He also gives invaluable insight into how to join the DGA as an assistant director. There are tons of practical organizational and leadership principles in this conversation, no matter what department you work in. Not to mention, inspiring reflections on creative problem-solving and the unique sense of fulfillment you get when collaborating to make a film.
Show notes from this episode:
-Ian Campbell on Imdb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1969344/?ref_=fn_al_nm_3
-Send us questions and comments: [email protected]
-Follow us on Social: @callsheetshow
-How to Join the DGA: https://dga.org/The-Guild/Departments/Membership/Joining-the-DGA.aspx
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A production designer heads one of the two largest departments on a production. How do they balance both the creative and managerial aspects of their job? Who are the key people they collaborate with and delegate to? How do they maximize production value even when working with a low budget? On this episode, our guest Rusty Smith draws from his experiences on hit movies like Elf, Meet the Parents, Austin Powers, and the acclaimed horror/thriller Get Out. He explains what to prioritize when location scouting, key traits to look for when hiring crew, and how to collaborate well with producers and directors. He also highlights the differences between the designer and the art director, shares best practices for managing his budget well, and tells story after story about adapting and rolling with the punches to make the best movie possible.
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT: The History of the Title "Production Designer" - Rusty Smith: www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-Rusty Smith on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0809840/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-Rusty's portfolio: rustysmith.biz
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow us on social: @callsheetshow
-Mel Bourne on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0100080/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr8
-Stephen Hendrickson on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0376807/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2
-Bill Groom on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0343144/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
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“I’m like a wedding planner for commercials,” says our guest Denny Rubianes. He’s a production supervisor who has worked with national brands like Sony, Nike, Peloton, ALL the car brands you can imagine, and household name talent — including Michelle Obama, Brittany Spears, Jay Z, and Jeff Bridges, just to name a few. Today on the show, we dive deep into how production supervisors lead the crew, deal with vendors, manage all the logistics of a shoot, and keep each department on track and under budget. Denny also shares his wisdom on how to navigate relationships with producers, directors, and the accounting department, with essential advice about production manuals and how to manage stress on the job.
Show notes from this episode:
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
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How do you influence crew camaraderie, hire the right people, and set a tone for effective collaboration and problem-solving? Production coordinator Joshua Gonzales (Knives Out, Leave No Trace) talks about the importance of listening, drawing on everyone’s creativity, and creating a true community with the teams you work with. From the cast to the crew, he seeks to work with individuals that are completely in tune with the creative vision and committed to excellence in all aspects of the job. We close the conversation with Josh’s advice for working your way up in production and how to become indispensable to all the department heads. Don’t miss this masterclass in proactivity and good old fashioned hustle.
Show notes from this episode:
-Joshua Gonzales on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3710760/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far On Foot: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6288124/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
-More About Cartoonist John Callahan: https://tinyurl.com/y6n9kkmc
-The Complete Film Production Handbook, by Eve Honthaner: https://tinyurl.com/y5bwkh2p
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What does it take to work in the location department? Veteran location manager Mike Fantasia gives expert advice about the creative and logistical aspects of his job — like scouting, budgeting, management, collaborating with department heads, and how to interface with location owners. He also shares best practices for working your way up, including his secret criteria when hiring people for his department, and discusses what low budget projects should keep in mind to handle locations the right way.
Show notes from this episode:
-Mike Fantasia on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0266887/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-Location Managers Guild International
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How do you plan and execute a successful crowdfunding campaign? On today’s episode, our guest Marty Lang shares lessons from his own crowdfunding experiences and unpacks the oft-overlooked skills that filmmakers must develop to build a sustainable career (such as PR and marketing). He then explains how to find and grow an audience, defines essential do’s and don’ts of email and social media outreach, and outlines the team members you should recruit before launching your campaign. Marty goes on to discuss how to design your contribution incentives, make an impactful pitch video, and craft effective calls to action. We then explore best practices for maintaining engagement throughout your campaign and end with Marty’s advice to help you get the word out about the films you want to make. Most importantly, Marty guides you through the process of converting people’s interest into action.
Show notes from this episode:
-Marty Lang on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0485847/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
-Follow Marty on Twitter: @marty_lang
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
Seed & Spark: https://www.seedandspark.com/
Marty’s Stay With Me Campaign: https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/staywithme#media
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What does an art department coordinator do? Our guest Sasha De Mello breaks down everything that goes into supporting the artists who design and execute the visual aesthetic of a film. Her tasks are similar to a production coordinator’s, she says — except instead of pushing around black and white documents all day, she gets to deal with the most stunning and immersive imagery. She deals with sets, costumes, props, hair and makeup, concept artists, graphic designers, and more, allocating labor, managing cost reporting, interfacing with production, establishing the pipeline with studios, and facilitating communication with VFX vendors. From development to post, the art department coordinator works directly with the production designer and art director in keeping the visual language of a film consistent and on brand. We end our conversation with Sasha’s insights on how to lead groups of artists through effective creative collaboration.
Show notes from this episode:
-Sasha De Mello on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3507457/
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-What is the Art Department and What Does It Do?
https://tinyurl.com/yywq6ros
-Avatar 2 Concept Art: https://tinyurl.com/y3nzj34a
-Avatar 2 Resumes Production: https://tinyurl.com/yxdws4zh
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There seem to be countless ways into a career in film production. For those starting out in the business, it can be difficult to determine which path is right for you. Our guest today is a perfect example of one trajectory — the path from PA to AD. Her name is Katie Valovcin, a DGA 2nd Assistant Director (Little Women, Castle Rock, Detroit). Katie drops some knowledge about the essential skills and attributes for production assistants to keep moving up, which can be applied to anyone in any department who is trying to build their career on set. She also breaks down some of her primary tasks and responsibilities as a 2nd AD, and shares some best practices that she’s learned for leading her team effectively.
Show notes from this episode:
-Katie Volovcin on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3506206/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-www.callsheetshow.com
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-2nd AD Tim Blockberger on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1505663/
-Little Women 1st AD Jonas Spaccarotelli: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1130640/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr40
-Katie's 2nd 2nd AD Sean Yopchick, on Little Women: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2667832/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr43
-“What Are Sides?” on Studio Binder:https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/script-sides/ -
Veteran script supervisor Ana Maria Quintana talks about building trust with directors, actors, and department heads. The key, she says, is learning what to say, when to say it, and how to say it. Over her 40+ years in the industry, she’s worked side by side with Steven Spielberg, Cameron Crowe, Ridley Scott, Clint Eastwood, Rodrigo Prieto, and many more. No matter what department you’re in, you’ll learn how to strengthen relationships and maximize your contributions on set.
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT, Supervising Multiple Monitors At Once - Ana Maria Island: www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-Ana Maria Quintana on Imdb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0704088/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-Who’ll Stop the Rain, directed by Karel Reisz: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0078490/?ref_=nm_flmg_dr_6
-Golden Age of Mexican Cinema, article in NY Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/22/movies/golden-age-of-mexican-cinema.html
-Duties of Script Supervisor on Studio Binder: https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/script-supervisor-forms-template/
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A crash course for planning stunts and action sequences, by stunt master Andy Gill. With stories and insights from Marvel movies, the Fast and Furious franchise, and countless other projects, Andy illuminates the collaborative nature of the stunt department and their essential contributions to the creative outcome of a film. We talk about leading a stunt team well, how to approach stunts at different budget levels, and best practices in safety and risk management while still having fun and executing the coolest sequences for the big and small screens. Andy even shares a story about a unique use for a sex dummy in a car chase for Furious 7… Don’t miss it!
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT, Designing the Black Panther Casino Fight - Andy Gill: www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-Andy Gill on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0318617/
-Andy Gill on Stunts Unlimited: https://stuntsunlimited.com/artist/andy-gill/
-Jack Gill: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0318678/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
-Spiro Rozatos: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0713610/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Social: @callsheetshow
-Opening chase scene on ice, Fate of the Furious: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d1P50L28LU
-What the Heck is a Scriptment? on NoFilmSchool: https://nofilmschool.com/boards/discussions/what-heck-scriptment
-“Rescuing Ramsey”: Using a Sex Dummy in a Furious 7 Car Chase: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Rh1QXCF9Wc
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How do you break in as a young woman DP? Tehillah De Castro talks about coming up through the electric department, the importance of doing spec work, and choosing the right representation for your career goals. She tells us about shooting her first feature (with only three lights!), and what that taught her about being resourceful even on big budget commercials. She also shares invaluable lessons about leading crew members twice her age and how to find your unique voice as a filmmaker.
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT, Branded Content, Rejection, and How to Pick Mentors - Tehillah De Castro: https://www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-https://www.tehillahdecastro.com/
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Twitter: @callsheetshow
-Why You Should Make Spec Work, on Studio Binder: shorturl.at/rtw13
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Production stories from the frontlines of The Irishman, Da 5 Bloods, Joker, Into the Wild, Silence, and more. Master 1st AD David Webb talks about how to organize prep, communicate effectively during production to execute the director’s vision, and how to strive for excellence in your work and relationships. He also gives insight into breaking down scripts, leading department heads, blocking background performers, and what he looks for in his AD team.
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT, An AD's Perspective on Advancing Technology On Set - David Webb: https://www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-BONUS SEGMENT, What Happens When You Cast Real Mobsters and Cops in Scorsese Films - David Webb: https://www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-David Webb on IMDb: shorturl.at/vLU46
-David Webb on "Thinking Big", from DGA Quarterly Magazine: shorturl.at/BFKQ2
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Twitter: @callsheetshow
-"Da 5 Bloods" directed by Spike Lee, on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81045635
-Typhoon scene in Silence: shorturl.at/cyHRS
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What’s the role of the production office in helping a movie run smoothly? Production Coordinator Chris Bryant talks about facilitating communication between the set and the office, supporting department heads as they collaborate with each other, and fostering great relationships between the production and the studio. He also shares insights on essential leadership skills and how to cultivate an attitude of service for the crew. Don’t miss Chris’s firsthand stories from Top Gun: Maverick, Gemini Man, Avengers: Age of Ultron, The Fate of the Furious, and more.
Show notes from this episode:
-BONUS SEGMENT, How to Break In and Stay In - Chris Bryant: https://www.callsheetshow.com/bonus
-Chris Bryant on IMDb: shorturl.at/adsD7
-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: [email protected]
-Follow Call Sheet on Twitter: @callsheetshow
-Tax Incentive Information from Entertainment Partners: https://www.productionincentives.com/
-Scenechronize from Entertainment Partners: shorturl.at/hqQR2
-What is a Navy “Plan of the Day”? shorturl.at/bsvM9
-More Info on Contract Services Crew Training: shorturl.at/prtCM
-5160 Avery Labels: https://www.avery.com/templates/5160
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COMING JULY 30! Call Sheet is a podcast about film production and the boots-on-the-ground work of below-the-line crew. It’s meant for the rank and file filmmakers in every department, and at every level — the hungry young folks who are making their way in the industry and the more seasoned veterans who just love production. On every episode, we talk about a hands-on topic with a guest from the front lines. If you work in physical production in any department, across features, tv, commercials, docs, even digital media — this show is for you. Tune in every week for new guests and brass-tacks production talks. Available starting July 30 wherever you listen to podcasts.
