THE STUDENT ASSISTANT DIRECTOR'S GUIDEBOOK

Abstract

The goal of this Guidebook is to enable a university film student, with little to no previous experience as an Assistant Director, to fulfill the AD's role on any class project. On any film or TV show, the AD is the event manager of the production, responsible for scheduling, organizing and day-to-day supervision and leadership on the set. The AD is the project's prime communicator and coordinator as they strive to provide their Director, cast, and crew with the maximum resources available within the project’s budget and time limitations. While crucial to any production, the craft of the Assistant Director is rarely taught in university film schools. There is no UA FTV course dedicated to teaching all of the skills needed to be an Assistant Director. Basic budgeting and scheduling are covered in the second semester of the producing course series, but this is an elective that not all students in the program will have the opportunity to take. This Guidebook is a tutorial for those without AD experience, and a reference tool for those looking to improve their performance.