A look into my role as a 1st AD on "The Bill" - 2024

"The Bill" was the first project at university i was a part of. Our unit was screen fundimentals and the goal was to introduce us all to the basics of student filmmaking. Our brief? A one-minute no-dialogue short film that experimented with various shot types, camera movements and handling basic admin behind the scenes.

The Director/Producer for the project, Killian Barton, handled the risk assessments, location analysis, storyboarding, and script breakdown while working closely with our D.O.P., Lily Murphy, to create a shot list and lighting plan.

My tasks involved a variety of critical responsibilities that were essential to the smooth operation of the production. One of the primary duties was creating the call sheets, which required attention to detail. These sheets served as a vital communication tool, outlining the daily schedule, including the times and locations for each scene, as well as the specific actors and crew members needed on set. It was important to ensure that all information was accurate and clearly presented, as any unclear information could lead to confusion and delays in the filming process.

In addition to creating call sheets, I was also responsible for managing the schedules of not only the actors but also the crew. Frequent communication with the actors was crucial, as I needed to keep them informed about any changes to the schedule, ensure they understood their roles, and address any concerns they might have. This aspect of the job required strong skills and the ability to maintain a positive working relationship with all involved, maintaining an environment where everyone felt comfortable expressing their needs and ideas.

Recognising the importance of continuous improvement in my role, I dedicated time to learning new skills that were essential for delivering a project that would not only meet but exceed the expectations of the unit. This involved extensive research into the responsibilities of being a 1st Assistant Director. I studied various resources, including books, online courses, and industry articles, to gain a deeper understanding of what the role entailed. I reflected on my previous experiences to identify areas where I might have fallen short or overlooked critical aspects of the job.

Through this process, I came to realise that the role of a 1st Assistant Director is much more than just managing schedules and call sheets. It involves an understanding of the entire production process, the ability to anticipate challenges, and the capacity to adapt quickly to changes. I learned that effective leadership and the ability to motivate a team are equally important, as a cohesive and well-informed crew is essential for a successful shoot. Ultimately, my commitment to learning and growth not only equipped me with the necessary skills to fulfil my responsibilities but also instilled a sense of confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the project.

Looking back in 2026

Although this was only a small-scale production, the workflow was no short of the same rush I still experience today on larger-scale projects. The tight deadlines, making sure everything is understandable and managing a crew, the joy of that rush started here on this project. Looking back now, 2 years later, it reminds me of how much further I have come. From a small one-minute short about two people on a date battling to pay the bill, to managing a crew of 23 people in a virtual production studio, the rush still feels the same and I hope it stays that way for many years to come.