In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, join Chas Harrington as he delves into the world of film runners, sharing invaluable insights for those just starting their careers. Chas, known for his work on popular series like The Witcher and Andor, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the essential role of a film runner. He discusses the day-to-day realities on set, the importance of building positive relationships, and why effective communication is crucial for success. Chas shares his unique advice, like the importance of making a good instant coffee and how it can endear you to the crew. He also highlights the significance of the call sheet, describing it as the "holy grail" of film production, and emphasizes always asking, never demanding, to foster cooperation on set.

With a focus on attitude and adaptability, Chas offers practical advice to help aspiring runners navigate the film industry and make a lasting impression. He stresses the need for resilience in the face of unjust criticism and the value of keeping a positive demeanour under pressure. Whether you're looking to break into the industry or advance your career, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to help you thrive. Tune in to Filmmaking Framed for an engaging and insightful discussion that will set you on the path to success!

Key Lessons

• Communication is Key: Always ask instead of demand. This approach fosters cooperation and makes colleagues more willing to help.

• Master the Basics: Skills like making a good cup of instant coffee can significantly improve relationships on set, as small gestures matter.

• Resilience Under Pressure: Learn to absorb criticism without taking it personally. Keeping a positive attitude, even in tough situations, is crucial for long-term success.

Resources

• The role of a floor runner in film/TV

https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/film-and-tv-drama/production-management/floor-runner-film-and-tv-drama/

• ScreenSkills Fellowship Programme: A valuable resource for finding entry-level AD roles and support in the film industry.

https://www.screenskills.com/

• Networking on Facebook Groups:

https://www.facebook.com/share/SsAtqyZeiu9Uv5jr/

• Agent (Loop Talent): Chas discusses how getting an agent helped him secure various jobs and expand his network.

Interested in working with Chas? Contact him via LinkedIn

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, hosts Danion Hughes and Tom Dexter sit down with Stu Laurie, a script supervisor known for his work on projects like "All of Us Strangers," "Miracle Club," and "Silent Witness." Stu delves into the multifaceted role of a script supervisor, revealing how closely it aligns with directing. Discover the intricacies of maintaining continuity, the surprising responsibilities that come with the job, and how script supervisors collaborate with directors to bring a cohesive vision to life. Whether you're an aspiring script supervisor or a budding director, this episode is packed with insights and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the essential, yet often overlooked, role of a script supervisor in filmmaking. Join us for an engaging conversation that sheds light on the director's hidden ally on set!

Key Lessons

• The Importance of Collaboration: Stu stresses the need for close collaboration with the director, actors, and departments like art, costume, and makeup. Aligning with the director's vision ensures continuity and enhances storytelling.

• Preparation and Adaptability: Thorough preparation and quick adaptability are crucial. Knowing the script thoroughly and being ready to handle unexpected changes helps maintain continuity and support the director under pressure.

• Understanding Story and Editing:

Script supervisors must understand storytelling and editing. Thinking like an editor ensures all necessary shots are captured and helps make informed decisions about crucial narrative details.

Resources

Courses:

• Director Whisperer Course by Daniela Saioni: A course focusing on understanding a director's vision and how to support it as a script supervisor

• Art of Continuity by Dawn Gilliam: This course covers various aspects of continuity in filmmaking, although it is primarily American-Canadian based.

Books and Podcasts:

• Stu mentions that there are several books and podcasts related to editing and script supervision that can be helpful.

Film Schools and Workshops:

• Raindance: Offers courses on script supervision and other filmmaking topics.

• National Film and Television School (NFTS): Provides various levels of courses in script supervision and related fields.

Interested in getting in touch with Stu? Contact him through his agent

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

Join us as we sit down with Adam Betterton, an experienced location manager known for his work on projects like Jurassic World Dominion, Killing Eve, and Black Mirror. In this episode, Adam shares his journey into the film industry, the critical role of a location manager, and how he has helped others break into the field. Adam discusses the importance of tenacity, creativity, and practical problem-solving in scouting and managing locations. Learn about the challenges, rewards, and surprising aspects of working behind the scenes in film locations, including navigating council regulations and finding the perfect spots for complex scenes. Aspiring filmmakers will gain valuable insights into why starting in location management can be a fantastic entry point into the industry, offering unique opportunities to network, develop a deep understanding of film production logistics, and see some of the most extraordinary places. Discover the unseen career path that is essential to the success of any film production.

Key Lessons

• Persistence Pays Off: Adam stresses the importance of persistence in location scouting. Keep knocking on doors and following up to find the perfect spot and build lasting relationships.

• Practical Creativity: Adam highlights balancing creativity with practicality. A location must not only look great but also be logistically feasible for the crew and equipment.

• Networking and Mentorship: Adam shares a story about helping a Starbucks employee break into the film industry. This underscores the value of networking and mentorship, showing how strong connections and a good work ethic can open doors in unexpected ways.

Resources

• Lavish Locations: An agency specializing in residential properties.

https://lavishlocations.com/

• National Trust: For finding stately homes and larger historical sites.

https://www.nationaltrustimages.org.uk/filming-locations

• Facebook Groups: Such as "Location Department Juniors," which offer a platform for networking and information sharing among film professionals, facilitating job opportunities and community support.

https://www.facebook.com/share/7XxPb1aoNHwHGbPa/

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

In this episode, we feature Francesca Marago, the co-host of "Not The 9-5 Podcast", where she explores the realities of freelance life and offers invaluable advice for aspiring freelancers.

Francesca shares her inspiring journey as a dynamic force in the creative industries, juggling roles as an actress, producer, and location manager. From her early days in local theatre and studying drama at Portsmouth University to founding her own production company, Melon & Spud Productions, Francesca details her experiences working on commercials and still shoots, emphasising the importance of organisation and creativity in producing. She delves into her transition from acting to behind-the-scenes roles, revealing how internships and diverse job experiences helped shape her career. Francesca also discusses the importance of staying positive, finding hobbies outside of work, and continuously learning and adapting in a challenging industry. Tune in to hear Francesca's valuable insights on balancing multiple roles, building a successful freelance career, and thriving in the competitive world of film and television.

Key Lessons

• Versatility and Transferable Skills: Francesca transitioned from acting to producing and managing, highlighting the importance of versatility and transferable skills. Her journey showcases how organisational, creative, and leadership abilities are applicable across different industry roles, encouraging professionals to explore diverse opportunities.

• The Power of Networking and Mentorship: She underscores the importance of building connections and learning from others in the industry. Francesca's journey showcases how meeting key individuals, such as a location manager on a shoot or her current accountant, significantly impacted her career trajectory and provided crucial guidance.

• Staying Positive and Adaptive: Francesca stresses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, finding balance through hobbies, and continuously learning. Her advice to freelancers includes being proactive in seeking out new opportunities, staying adaptable to industry changes, and using downtime productively to recharge and grow personally and professionally.

Resources

• Networking Events and Industry Connections: Francesca highlights the importance of attending networking events and building connections within the industry. These events provided her with opportunities to meet key individuals, such as her business partner for Melon & Spud Productions.

• Not The 9-5 Podcast: Her own podcast serves as a resource for freelancers, offering insights, advice, and experiences from various professionals in the creative industry. They have a weekly newsletter where they share insider tips, tricks and stories to get you through your freelance lives, plus special guest announcements!

• OJC Accountancy: Francesca recommends her accountant, Rachel Owen Jones, who specialises in freelance and film industry accounting. Having a knowledgeable accountant has been crucial for managing her finances and understanding tax obligations.

[email protected]

Want to contact Francesca? Reach out to her via the methods below;

Acting & Voice Over Website: http://www.francescamarago.com

Spotlight: https://app.spotlight.com/1177-9081-5117

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescamarago/

IMdb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12666884/

Melon & Spud Productions: http://www.melonandspud.com

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, we sit down with Holly Mae Gibson, a development and script editor with Big Light Productions, to discuss her six years of experience in the industry. Holly delves into the intricacies of her role, highlighting the importance of nurturing writer relationships, managing various personalities, and developing scripts that captivate commissioners. She offers invaluable insights into the day-to-day tasks of a development editor, from overseeing reader panels to identifying emerging writing talent. Aspiring writers and development executives will gain a deeper understanding of the collaborative nature of TV production and the strategies for building a successful career in this dynamic field. Don’t miss Holly’s practical advice on breaking into the industry, making connections, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Tune in to learn how to turn your passion for storytelling into a thriving career.

Key Lessons

• Building Strong Writer Relationships: Holly emphasizes the importance of nurturing and maintaining strong relationships with writers. She explains that understanding a writer's style and vision is crucial for developing scripts that resonate with commissioners and audiences alike. This involves regular communication, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a collaborative environment.

• Navigating Industry Competitiveness: Holly discusses the challenges of attaching big names to projects and the overall competitiveness in the TV production industry. She advises on the importance of connections and networking, suggesting that building a solid network can open doors and create opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible.

• Gaining Diverse Experience: Holly highlights the significance of gaining experience across various roles within the industry. She explains that understanding different aspects of production, from development to legal agreements, can provide a well-rounded perspective that is invaluable in navigating the complexities of TV production. This diverse experience can also help individuals adapt to different roles and responsibilities as their careers progress.

Resources

Facebook Groups: Holly recommends joining Facebook groups tailored to the development side of TV production. These groups can offer job opportunities, networking possibilities, and industry insights.

Creative Access: Holly suggests using Creative Access, a platform that provides entry-level roles such as development assistant positions. It's a great resource for finding opportunities and gaining initial experience in the industry.

https://creativeaccess.org.uk/

ScreenSkills: Holly mentions ScreenSkills, an organization that offers training, information, and resources for people looking to get into the TV and film industry. This can include courses, workshops, and networking events.

https://www.screenskills.com/training/

Regional Film Offices: Holly advises looking into regional film offices for local opportunities and support. These offices can provide information on available jobs, local productions, and networking events in your area.

Email Outreach: Holly encourages reaching out to production companies, producers, and development editors directly via email. She suggests personalising these emails by mentioning specific projects you admire and expressing genuine interest in learning more about their roles and potential opportunities.

If you would like to get in touch with Holly, reach out to her via Big Light Productions

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of filmmaking with Standby Art Director Becca Salter. In this episode, Becca shares her experiences and insights from working on sets like "Still Up," "Trigger Point," and "Silent Witness." Learn about her journey into the industry, starting with work experience on "Horrible Histories" and her extensive time with the BBC, particularly on "Eastenders," where she honed her skills as a graphics assistant and later as a standby art director. Discover the day-to-day responsibilities of a standby art director, the challenges of coordinating with multiple departments, and the magic of bringing a script to life. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode is packed with valuable information and captivating stories from the heart of the film industry.

Key Lessons

• Effective Communication with Departments: Becca highlights the need for clear communication with various departments like sound, costume, and locations. She ensures props don’t interfere with dialogue, such as opting for canvas bags over noisy plastic ones, which is a crucial detail for smooth filming that’s often overlooked.

• Navigating Clearance Challenges: Becca shares the importance of understanding the legal implications for props and set decorations. For instance, a toy used in one scene couldn’t be reused in another due to clearance issues. This highlights the need for meticulous planning and coordination, especially with branded items.

• Adapting Quickly to New Sets: Becca discusses the importance of adaptability, explaining how she often joins sets for short periods. She emphasizes being prepared, doing thorough script breakdowns, and having the confidence to introduce herself and ask questions to seamlessly fit into new team dynamics.

Resources

• Networking and Mentorship: Becca emphasises reaching out to industry professionals via LinkedIn and other platforms. Building connections and seeking advice from experienced individuals can provide valuable insights and open doors to opportunities.

• Industry Schemes and Apprenticeships: Programmes like those offered by the BBC and organizations such as ScreenSkills and Skillset provide structured pathways into the industry. These schemes often include placements, mentorship, and hands-on experience in various departments.

https://www.screenskills.com/training-and-opportunities/?fundingOptions=ScreenSkills%20funded%20only#/

• Online Courses and Workshops: Becca mentions taking advantage of online courses to improve skills during downtime. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and industry-specific platforms offer courses on budgeting, technical drawing, and other relevant topics.

• Production Company Websites: Researching and reaching out to production companies directly through their websites can lead to work experience opportunities. Complimenting their work and expressing genuine interest in their projects can make your outreach more effective.

Want to get in touch with Becca? Reach out to her via LinkedIn or Instagram

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasalterart/

https://www.instagram.com/saltyslater?igsh=N2NjM3kyd2hpMncy

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

Join us in this episode as we talk with Zsofia Szemeredy, Co-Founder of Green Eyes Productions and a leading sustainability consultant in the film industry. Learn how she tackled the challenge of integrating recycling on set and addressed the carbon impact of film production. Discover sustainable practices like incorporating green solutions into scripts and leveraging new technologies like battery power. Hear Zsofia's firsthand experiences and practical tips on balancing creativity with sustainability, helping you lead the way in greening the film industry. Tune in for expert advice and actionable strategies.

Key Lessons

• Integrating Recycling on Set: Zsofia discusses the practical challenges and strategies for integrating recycling into the daily operations of film sets, highlighting the importance of changing habits and normalizing sustainable practices within the crew.

• Impact of Script Decisions on Carbon Footprint: She emphasizes the significance of considering the carbon impact during the scriptwriting phase. By making conscious choices about locations, set builds, and travel requirements, writers and producers can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of their productions.

• Leveraging New Technologies like Battery Power: Zsofia shares her experiences with transitioning to battery-powered solutions for energy needs on set. She talks about the initial resistance and eventual acceptance of these technologies, demonstrating how they can effectively replace traditional diesel generators and reduce carbon emissions.

Resources

• BAFTA Albert: An organization that provides a carbon calculator tool to measure a production's carbon footprint and offers seminars and educational resources on sustainability in the film industry.

https://wearealbert.org/

Green Eyes Productions: Zsofia's consultancy that assists film and TV productions in becoming more environmentally friendly, offering tailored advice and strategies for sustainability.

https://greeneyesproduction.com/

Industry Networking Groups:

• Ladies in Film and Television (LIFT): A group that organises events and seminars, such as the film financing seminar where Zsofia learned about the connection between sustainability and financing in films.

https://ladiesinfilm.org/

Innovative Battery Technologies:

• Voltstack Generators: Electric generators that are silent and emission-free, used to replace traditional diesel generators on set.

• Instagrid and Wattman Batteries: Lightweight, mobile battery solutions favoured by different departments for their ease of use on set.

Financial Incentives for Sustainable Production:

Countries like Austria, New Zealand, Germany, Slovakia, and Belgium offering financial incentives for productions that adopt sustainable practices.

Want to get in touch with Zsofia? Contact her via Green Eyes Productions or reach out to her via LinkedIn

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, hosts Tom Dexter and Danion Hughes sit down with film financier Ian Hutchinson. With a career spanning commercial banks, financier Silver Reel, and freelance consulting for private investors and financiers such as Piccadilly Pictures, Ian has been instrumental in funding over 200 films, including acclaimed titles like Loving Vincent, The Wife, and Under the Skin. Ian shares invaluable insights into the world of film finance, discussing equity and gap funding, film sales, the importance of having a confirmed cast, the nuances of pitching to investors, and the evolving landscape of film financing. Aspiring filmmakers will gain a deeper understanding of what financiers look for and how to navigate the complex journey of securing film funding.

Key Lessons

• Understanding Film Financing: Ian explains different types of film financing, such as equity, gap funding, and film sales, and what financiers look for in a project. This knowledge helps producers structure their financing plans effectively.

• Tailoring Your Pitch: Ian highlights the importance of focusing on financial aspects like budget and collateral when pitching to financiers. Understanding their perspective is key to a successful pitch.

• Maintaining Investor Relationships: Ian advises producers to keep investors informed and engaged throughout the project. Good communication and transparency are essential for securing future funding.

Resources

• UK Tax Credits

https://www.bfi.org.uk/apply-british-...

• Film Funding Terms Explained

https://filmlondon.org.uk/latest/inde...

Want to get in touch with Ian? Contact him via the team at Piccadilly Pictures

https://piccadillypictures.com/

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

https://www.centroid3d.com/

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, hosts Tom Dexter and Danion Hughes sit down with filmmakers Alix Austin and Keir Siewert of Switchblade Cinema (https://www.switchblade-cinema.com/) to delve into their debut feature film, "Kill Your Lover," (https://www.kyl-movie.com/) a tale of a toxic relationship interwoven with supernatural elements. Alix and Keir share invaluable insights on transitioning from shorts to features, emphasising meticulous planning and the value of committed actors over big names. They explore evolving trends in film financing and distribution, the impact of social media influencers on audience guarantees, and the challenges of authenticity in the competitive industry landscape. The filmmakers stress the importance of staying true to their unique vision, creating work with depth and passion amidst changing paradigms in the film industry. If you're an aspiring filmmaker looking to make your debut feature, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories that you won't want to miss. Tune in to learn how to turn your filmmaking dreams into reality!

KILL YOUR LOVER releases June 7th 2024 in North America - don't miss it!

Key Lessons

• Meticulous Planning and Preparation ("Fix it in Prep"): Alix and Keir emphasise the importance of thorough planning and preparation before production, coining the term "Fix it in Prep." This includes storyboarding, detailed pre-production work, and resolving as many issues as possible in the planning stages to ensure a smooth and efficient shoot. They stress that proper planning can help mitigate many of the challenges that arise during filming, especially when working with limited resources and tight schedules.

• Commitment and Flexibility: They highlight the significance of having a committed team who believe in the project. Rather than chasing big names, they advise working with actors and crew members who are genuinely passionate and invested in the film. Additionally, they talk about the necessity of being flexible and adaptable, learning to pivot and make the best out of unforeseen circumstances and challenges during the filmmaking process.

• Staying True to Your Vision: Alix and Keir stress the importance of creating work that is authentic and true to your unique vision. They encourage filmmakers to infuse their projects with personal passion and to make films that stand out in the crowded market by being idiosyncratic and genuine. This approach not only makes the filmmaking process more fulfilling but also helps in creating a distinctive and memorable film that resonates with audiences.

Resources

Influential Filmmakers and Films:

Christopher Nolan's "Following"

Richard Linklater's "Slacker"

Spike Lee's "She's Gotta Have It"

Brian De Palma for his dynamic and kinetic shooting style

Steven Soderbergh's "The Knick" for its innovative use of long takes and character focus

John Carpenter's "The Thing" for its effective handling of group scenes

Practical Experiences and Examples:

Short Films:

"The Foul": A short film by their DP, Oscar Garth, which showcased creative cinematography.

https://oscargarth.co.uk/The-Foul

Film Industry Insights:

Predatory Distributors Facebook Group: A resource for filmmakers to share experiences and warnings about predatory practices in film distribution.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/distribber/permalink/1820774805097359/

Personal Experiences:

Crowdfunding Campaigns: Their experiences with crowdfunding, both the challenges and successes, served as a significant reference for understanding film financing.

Want to get in touch with Alix and Keir? Contact them through their company website

https://www.switchblade-cinema.com/

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, hosts Danion Hughes and Tom Dexter chat with Paul Synnott of Mischief Grips, a grip who's been involved in projects like Masters of the Air, The Great Escaper, and Treason. Paul demystifies the world of grips, explaining their pivotal role in filmmaking with a dash of humour. He reveals what it takes to be a grip, from playing with Lego as a kid to mastering complex rigs on set. Paul also debunks the myth of grips being just "knuckle-draggers" and shares stories that highlight the creativity and technical know-how required for the job. If you're aspiring to be a grip or just curious about what they do, this episode is a must-listen, filled with practical advice and entertaining insights.

Key Lessons

• Creativity in Problem Solving: Paul emphasises the creative aspect of being a grip, noting that each grip might devise a different solution for the same problem. If you ask 100 grips to create one rig, you'll get 100 different rigs. This shows the need for creativity and adaptability in the role, as grips must often create unique setups for various shooting scenarios.

• Comprehensive Collaboration: Paul highlights that grips interact with almost every other department on set. They coordinate with the camera, art, lighting, and sound departments to ensure everything is positioned correctly and safely. This extensive collaboration is crucial for the smooth execution of a shoot, showcasing the grip's key role in production.

• Physical Fitness and Smart Work: Paul points out the importance of physical fitness due to the job's demanding nature but emphasises working smarter, not harder. He stresses proper lifting techniques and using the right equipment to prevent injuries. This balance between physical capability and strategic thinking is vital for longevity and safety in the grip profession.

Resources

• Training and Qualifications:

NVQ levels 2 and 3 for grips.

Trainee log book (now available online).

The certification process and assessments conducted by the London Grip Branch

https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/training/becoming-a-trainee

• Facebook Groups:

Shitty Rigs, a Facebook group where grips share creative and sometimes humorous rigging solutions.

https://www.facebook.com/share/BX8dyB6xUbGQiyhZ/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Want to work with Paul? Get in touch via Instagram or his diary service, Gravy Crew

https://www.gravycrew.co.uk/crew-profile-print.php?id=207

https://www.instagram.com/mister.mischievous/?hl=en

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.