FILM EDUCATION

Directing Fundamentals. Without a strong vision behind a story, a film will lose its focus. A film director needs to have an understanding of how each department contributes to the making of a film and how to best utilize the talents of all team members. The following 100 LEVEL blogs cover the role and responsibilities of a director in script development, pre-production, production, and post production. Read along to learn how to tell a story cinematically, use the camera as a tool, prepare a script analysis and engage in the casting and rehearsal process with actors.

July 28, 2024

Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

July 28, 2024/ john pozer

Directors need a strong idea for what they’re looking for in every scene

After all the planning, preparation, meetings, auditions, rehearsals, location scouts, etc. – the first day of principle photography is what all the work has been about.

Your script analysis, thumbnail frames, shotlist, schematics, and meetings with your creative keys have helped build the plan for the production.

Pre-thinking performance notes and details are a vital part of the playbook.

July 16, 2024

Film Directing 125: The Production Meeting

July 16, 2024/ john pozer

Gather round, everybody! We are ready to roll!

The production meeting is a review of all the details and moving parts of the production with all of the people involved in the shoot.

There are different ways to approach the meeting but the goal is always the same: to ensure that all departments and all personnel are in the know and ready to go.

This is a leadership moment for the directing team. Make it count!

June 25, 2024

Film Directing 124: The Director's Tech Survey

June 25, 2024/ john pozer

Let's get this show on the road!

The tech survey is where the rubber hits the road for the directing team: laying out the production plans, the schedule, the start and stop times — basically, everything that’s going to happen for each day of shooting at each set.

The more details and precision, the better. Thoroughness and clarity are key.

Make the most of your tech survey. It sets the tone for your shoot.

June 19, 2024

Film Directing 123: Show and Tell Meetings

June 19, 2024/ 21 century film/ john pozer

Keep production running smoothly with no surprises

Show and Tell meetings bring together the various elements of the images you plan to create. They also help you avoid unwanted surprises during principle photography.

Everyone on the filmmaking team wants to deliver their best work. Clear, concise communication and decisive leadership from the director is a must. Effective show and tell meetings begin with the director. Vagueness and uncertainty are not helpful and will likely lead to delays and disappointments on set.

Get all your ducks (and seahorses) in a row!

May 02, 2024

Film Directing 117: The Director's Schedule

May 02, 2024/ john pozer

The schedule runs the engine of production

Films are rarely shot in chronological order. Creating the production plan, crafting an efficient schedule, and deciding on the best order for shooting your film is done with your assistant director.

There are many puzzle pieces to a shooting schedule. Weather forecasts, location access, equipment availability, and actor availability can all create logistical challenges. A well-organized schedule lets you get the work for the day done in the allotted time with strong performances and a sense that everyone is pleased with their efforts.

Take care when building your schedule. It will pay off with a good directing experience.

April 29, 2024

Film Directing 116: The Director's Assistant Director

April 29, 2024/ john pozer

Treat your Assistant Director like Gold

The first assistant director and their team is the engine that keeps your production running. Treat them like gold. They are worth it!

Your best chance at getting good performances from your actors and having an organized shoot that runs smoothy – on time and on budget – is to have an informed assistant director. Planning and managing all the moving parts of a film production and having everything in the right place at the right time is like a paramilitary operation.

Your show will only be as good as the teamwork and communication between you and your first assistant director. They are your most precious partner – because they make your creative plans come to life.