In a nutshell
- The first assistant director (first AD) is essential in bridging the gap between the director’s creative vision and the logistical execution necessary to bring a film project to life.
- Effective time management, resource allocation and interpersonal communication are crucial skills for a first AD to manage the complex operations of film production.
- Career progression for first assistant directors typically involves starting in entry-level positions and gradually working their way up.
The first assistant director, or first AD, plays a crucial role on film and video production sets. From closely working with the director to choreograph the day’s shooting schedule to being the set’s safety captain, the first AD ensures the production progresses smoothly.
Let’s take a closer look at what the first assistant director does and why they are so important.
Differences between a director and first assistant director
While directors and their first assistant directors, along with their second assistant directors, work closely together, their roles are quite different. Here’s how they differ:
Director
Essentially, the director is the captain if a production is a sailing ship. The director holds the vision of the project and has the power to steer the narrative, visual style and acting performances. However, realizing this vision involves intricate logistical coordination, which is where the first AD steps in.
First assistant director
The first assistant director role comes down to management — organizing schedules, overseeing time allocations, and ensuring smooth operations on set. Really, the first assistant director is the director’s chief collaborator. While the director concentrates on the creative aspects, the first AD works to implement this vision efficiently. As such, first ADs communicate directives to the crew and make sure everyone on the team is on the same page.
Additional assistant directors
On larger sets, the team might include multiple assistant directors, with the second AD supporting the first AD. The responsibilities of the second AD are more specific, such as handling the extras, preparing call sheets and liaising with various departments to ensure readiness for each day’s shooting.
So, in summary, the director manages the artistic vision of the project and oversees the creative elements, while the first AD bridges the gap between this vision and the practical realities of production. The second AD provides crucial support and focuses on detailed organizational tasks.
Key responsibilities of a first assistant director
Pre-production
Typically, the first assistant director (first AD) responsibilities begin by analyzing the script. They dissect it scene by scene, assessing everything from locations and props to specific needs like special effects or stunt requirements. This allows the first AD to make a detailed shooting schedule, determining the sequence of scenes and optimizing the order to maximize time and budget efficiency.
So, the first AD is heavily involved in the pre-production phase long before the cameras start rolling. They will coordinate with department heads — from cinematography to costume and makeup — to ensure everyone is clear on their roles and timelines.
Production
Once filming commences, the first AD helps prepare the set by making sure equipment is set up and confirming that everyone knows their responsibilities for the day. For first ADs, time management is crucial. They will work to keep the production on track and quickly address any delays to minimize any disruptions. Additionally, while they keep their eyes on the clock, it’s also up to them to make sure the crew follows safety protocols to prevent accidents.
Post-production
Once filming wraps, the first AD’s focus shifts to recordkeeping. They document detailed notes on what was shot, the time it took and any issues encountered. These records are vital for the editing team, providing context for on-set decisions, including script adjustments. Additionally, the first AD oversees the management of props and the return of rented equipment.
Skills and qualifications
Skills
To excel as a first assistant director, mastering a diverse set of skills is essential. As mentioned before, time management is a paramount skill for first ADs to have. They are responsible for meticulous planning and agile decision-making. They ensure that every aspect of the production adheres to a strict schedule. So, to become a first AD, you need to be organized and good at multitasking.
Equally crucial is resource allocation; they must optimize the use of crew time and equipment to keep the project within budget. Proficiency in planning and scheduling software is indispensable for managing these tasks effectively.
Interpersonal skills are also vital. Clear communication is a significant part of the job, as the first AD must relay the film’s immediate needs to the crew. They often play a key role in conflict resolution, whether smoothing over crew disputes or addressing scheduling conflicts, to maintain a smooth production flow.
Experience
While there are no stringent educational requirements, many first assistant directors hold a bachelor’s degree in film studies, production or a related field. However, practical experience is typically valued over formal education. Most first ADs begin in entry-level positions on film sets and ascend through the ranks, acquiring hands-on skills that are crucial for effective collaboration with the director and other departments such as cinematography and sound.
First assistant directors in the field
Chris Castaldi
Chris Castaldi is a highly experienced first assistant director with credits on projects like “Iron Man 2” (2010), “Man of Steel” (2013), “Jurassic World” (2015), “Avengers: Infinity War” (2018) and “Avengers: Endgame” (2019). He started in film as an office production assistant on “Edtv” and worked his way up to working, most recently, as the first assistant director on major productions.
Nilo Otero
Nilo Otero has worked with acclaimed director Christopher Nolan since “The Dark Knight” (2008) as the first assistant director, but his career started long before that. Having been working in the industry since the 1980s, his first gig as a first AD was in “By the Sword” (1991). Since then, he has worked as the first assistant director on “The Last Samurai” (2003), “Inception” (2010), “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012), “Dunkirk” (2017) and, most recently, “Oppenheimer” (2023).
Daisy Gerber
Daisy Gerber had a long career as a first assistant director and was one of the first female assistant directors in Hollywood. She has worked on TV films and series as a first AD, such as “Tenspeed and Brown Shoe” (1980), “Passions” (1984), “Shattered Innocence” (1988) and “Jessie” (1984).
A vital role on set
When it comes down to it, the first assistant director has a central role and is needed if bigger productions are to run smoothly. Acting as a bridge between the director’s creative vision and the practicalities of making that vision a reality, the first AD handles many responsibilities. From planning the shooting schedule in the pre-production phase to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the set during production, the first assistant director does more than act as an assistant to the director.
If you are looking to become a first assistant director, from what we can see from some of the industry’s most successful first assistant directors, you have to work your way up the ladder. For the most part, first assistant directors never start their first projects as one. In fact, most work as second assistant directors on a few projects before they move up to becoming a first assistant director. What this means is that while studying to become an assistant director is important, real-world experience is just as important.
Ultimately, the first assistant director’s role is indispensable and multifaceted, making them a cornerstone of any successful film or video project. Their ability to juggle multiple tasks efficiently while facilitating creative expression is what keeps the wheels of production turning smoothly.
