You live and breathe movies. You’ve been devouring films since you were a kid, analyzing every camera angle and directorial choice. But working as a film director seems like an impossible dream, right?
Wrong! One of the best ways to get your foot in the door of the movie-making world is by starting as a film director’s assistant. This vital role works directly with the director, learning the filmmaking process firsthand while getting unparalleled career experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about film director assistant jobs. From understanding the role and responsibilities to finding open positions and acing the interview – we’ve got you covered. Get ready to take that first step towards your dream career in the exhilarating world of film!
What is a Film Director Assistant?
A film director’s assistant, often called a director’s assistant or DA for short, is an essential part of any major movie or TV production. Their primary role is to support and assist the director in whatever way needed throughout the entire filming process.
While an assistant director (AD) manages the crew and scheduling, a director’s assistant works exclusively with the director. They handle everything from crafting shooting schedules to breaking down script notes, technical preparations, and so much more.
On a typical day, a director’s assistant may:
- Assemble and distribute call sheets, schedules, scripts
- Take detailed notes during meetings, rehearsals, filming
- Manage the director’s communications and interactions
- Research and gather references for scenes and characters
- Set up video villages and ensure proper monitoring
- Handle director’s personal needs and tasks on set
- Troubleshoot issues and put out “fires” as they arise
It’s an incredibly hands-on job that requires long hours and wearing many different hats. The director’s assistant is truly critical to a production running smoothly from the director’s creative vision.
Skills and Qualifications Needed
Just like movies themselves, being an effective film director’s assistant requires the perfect mix of technical know-how and artistic passion. Here are some must-have skills:
Educational Background
- Bachelor’s degree in film, communications or related field
- Coursework in cinematography, screenwriting, film history
- Understanding of production equipment and software
Technical Skills
- Proficient with video editing, cloud storage and collaboration tools
- Knowledge of cameras, lighting, grip equipment
- Experience with office productivity software
Intangible Soft Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Problem-solving and creative thinking
- Extreme attention to detail and organizational skills
- Cool under pressure with strong time management
- Ability to take direction and be a team player
Film Industry Experience
- Prior production assistant or intern experience a huge plus
- Existing network and connections in the movie industry
- Working knowledge of union procedures and policies
At the end of the day, being a director’s assistant requires being a “master multi-tasker” who is creative yet technical, communicative yet detail-oriented, and most of all – passionate about the art of filmmaking.
Finding Film Director Assistant Jobs
So you’ve got the skills and qualifications – now where do you actually find these elusive film director assistant jobs? Here are some key strategies:
Job Boards and Websites
- Entertainment job boards like EntertainmentCareers.net
- Major sites like Indeed.com, Google Jobs, LinkedIn
- Production company staff listings and job openings
- Film crew staffing agencies and payroll companies
Network and Make Connections
- Attend local film festivals, screenings and industry events
- Join online groups and forums for film professionals
- Leverage alumni connections from your university
- Get to know camera, lighting and equipment rental houses
- Consider joining unions like IATSE or the Teamsters
Build Your Portfolio
- Create a personalized website and reel showing your capabilities
- Take freelance or volunteer production assistant gigs
- Work on independent films, shorts and student projects
- Start your own YouTube channel or video projects
Get Relevant Experience
- Apply for internships at production companies
- Work as a runner or production assistant first
- Take online training courses in film production
- Learn from books/resources on filmmaking and directing
The film industry is all about who you know, so creating an impressive body of work and tapping into networking opportunities can open doors.
On-Set Life as a Director’s Assistant
Once you land that director’s assistant role, buckle up – working on a professional film set is a wild ride! Here’s a glimpse into that world:
Film Set Hierarchy and Environment
- The director is the ultimate captain and leader on set
- You’ll report directly to them above other crew
- Take instructions but anticipate director’s needs
- Stay hyper-organized amidst organized chaos
Foster Strong Relationships
- Get to know and earn trust of the crew
- Communicate diplomatically with all departments
- Support the director’s vision to guide the team
- Don’t be afraid to take charge when needed
Demanding Schedule and Stamina
- Extremely long 12-18 hour workdays common
- Quick turnarounds and deadline pressures
- Always be “on” and ready to jump into action
- Prioritize self-care with proper rest on off-days
Entertainment Industry Perks
- Unique chance to be creative on real productions
- Surround yourself with talented, passionate people
- Get unparalleled firsthand film education
- Opportunities for travel and new experiences
While the hours are grueling and high-stress situations plentiful, working as a director’s assistant is a thrilling way to immerse yourself in moviemaking. It’s the perfect training ground for aspiring directors and producers.
Career Path and Advancement
Don’t think of a film director’s assistant job as just a temporary gig. It can absolutely be a career path in itself, or it can serve as an outstanding launching pad for other filmmaking roles and opportunities.
Move up to Assistant Director Role
- Logical next step after gaining experience as DA
- Similar responsibilities but managing crew
- AD has more authority and higher pay
Become a Film Director or Producer
- Get at the job’s core creative responsibilities
- Form connections to land directing/producer jobs
- Translate film set experience to your own projects
Take the Entrepreneurial Route
- Start an independent production company
- Make your own shorts, web series, indie films
- Utilize all your production know-how and skills
- Greater creative control and ownership
Other Paths in the Industry
- Transition to jobs like location scout or manager
- Explore different departments like cinematography
- Move into TV, commercial or branded content
- Use experience to teach film at university level
The technical expertise and soft skills you gain as a DA translate incredibly well. With passion and drive, many assistants go on to have prolific Hollywood careers in all areas of entertainment.
Interview Tips and Resume Advice
Okay, you’ve put in the hard work and now have that exciting director’s assistant interview lined up. Here’s how to make an amazing impression:
Resume Format and Content
- Lead with your most impressive film experience
- Include detailed production responsibilities and skills
- Use software or technical certification sections
- Feature any completed creative projects or awards
- Keep it visual and scannable with clear formatting
Interview Questions to Prep For
- “What does a director’s assistant do day-to-day?”
- “How do you handle stress and deadlines?”
- “Describe a time you solved a difficult problem”
- “What editing or film production tools do you use?”
- “Why are you passionate about filmmaking?”
What Film Directors Want
- Enthusiastic “students” eager to learn
- Quick thinkers who stay calm under fire
- Excellent communicators and note-takers
- Hard workers with positive team attitudes
- People who truly “get” their artistic vision
Practice with mock interviews, have insightful questions ready, and be prepared to demonstrate your technical and creative skills when asked. Don’t forget to ask about company culture too!
Conclusion
A film director’s assistant job is the ultimate foot in the door for aspiring directors, producers, cinematographers – you name it. It’s an intense, demanding role that allows you to fully immerse yourself in how real movie productions operate.
From pre-production planning to managing the chaotic energy of a live set, you’ll gain invaluable hands-on training that simply can’t be learned in a classroom. Not to mention unparalleled networking access and the chance to form career-making relationships.
If you’re passionate about directing, storytelling, and the magic of movies, don’t pass up the incredible opportunity to start as a director’s assistant. It may be hard, grueling work, but for passionate creatives it’s truly the best way to kickstart your dream career in the exhilarating world of film!
So get those resumes polished, start expanding your industry connections, and prepare to hit the ground running as the indispensable right-hand to some of the most visionary directors out there. Break a leg!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a director’s assistant do in film?
A director’s assistant, or DA, is responsible for supporting the film director in all aspects of production. Their main duties include script supervision, managing the director’s schedule, taking detailed notes during filming, handling logistics/communications, researching references, and ensuring the director has everything needed to execute their creative vision.
How do you become an assistant film director?
To become an assistant director, you typically need several years of experience working as a director’s assistant first. Common steps include getting a degree in film/production, doing internships, working as a production assistant, joining unions like the DGA, and networking extensively in the industry to make key connections.
What are the top 3 skills for an assistant director?
- Outstanding organizational and multitasking abilities
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Solid technical knowledge of equipment, software, and on-set procedures
What is a 1st assistant director in film?
The 1st assistant director (1st AD) is one of the most crucial roles on a film crew. They manage the daily schedule, coordinating with all departments to ensure everything runs smoothly during production. The 1st AD takes over managing the set and is the director’s representative when they are not present.
How much do 1st assistant directors get paid?
According to industry reports, the average salary for a 1st assistant director on a major film production is around $100,000-$150,000 per project. Highly experienced 1st ADs working on big-budget movies can make $250,000 or more. The pay scale is lower for television and indie films.
What is a director’s assistant called?
A director’s assistant goes by several titles including director’s assistant (DA), personal assistant to the director, and script supervisor/note taker. They are sometimes abbreviated as PAs (production assistants) as well, though that can cause confusion with the broader PA crew role.
Is it hard to be an assistant director?
Being an assistant director is an extremely challenging job that requires immense stamina, organizational skills, and the ability to calmly handle high-stress situations. It’s a demanding role with very long hours that can be difficult to balance with family/personal life. But it’s an essential path for those wanting to become directors.
How many assistant directors on a film set?
Most major film productions have a team of three primary assistant directors: the 1st AD, 2nd AD, and 3rd AD. The number can vary a bit based on project scale and budget, with larger sets sometimes having additional assistant directors as well.
Who hires production assistants on film?
For major studio films, the director and assistant directors are typically involved in hiring PAs, though the line producer or production coordinator may facilitate the process. On indie films, the producer and/or director handles PA hiring directly. Production assistants are entry-level crewmembers assisting with everything on set.
