Assistant Director Workshop 

10 sessions

"A great first assistant director is essential to the smooth operation of a film set. They are the unsung heroes who keep everything on track and make the director's vision a reality." Steven Spielberg

with Brad Pitt in Prague, Czech Republic

Little known by the general public, the role of an Assistant Director (AD) is crucial to the success of any film production. Through their expertise in scheduling, coordination, and communication, ADs provide the essential backbone that supports the entire filmmaking process. Their behind-the-scenes efforts allow directors, actors, and crew members to focus on their creative tasks, ultimately bringing a cohesive and well-executed film to the audience.

An Assistant Director position is an excellent launchpad for a career in the film industry, whether for feature films, television, streaming platforms, commercials, and beyond.

Our Assistant Director Workshop is a highly practical and comprehensive program, designed to provide a thorough introduction to this vital role. 

Basic knowledge of the work of an assistant director will give you a significant advantage when applying for a job in the competitive film industry.

with world-renowned Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai

  • Who is it for?

    This workshop is designed for anyone who is interested in studying film in college or pursuing a career in the film industry. Whether you aspire to be an Assistant Director, part of a production staff (such as a PA, coordinator, production manager, producer), or even a future director, this program is for you!

  • What do you need?

    Nothing special is required! Just a computer with Word or Google docs and Excel or Google Sheets, or their equivalents.

  • The program

    This workshop includes 10 one-on-one online sessions (ranging from 45 to 90 minutes). Here's a comprehensive outline:

  • Introduction to the Role of the Assistant Director

    • Overview of the Film Industry 

    • What is an Assistant Director? 

    • Key roles in film production, from Producer to PA…

    • Career Path

  • Pre-Production

    • What is Pre-production?

    • What is a script?

    • Script format and scene numbering

    • Breakdown 

    • Timing 

    • Estimated shooting time 

    • The director's job. Blocking and Staging. 

    • Shot List

    • Scheduling 

    • Location scouting 

    • Review practical assignments

  • Production

    • Call sheet 

    • A day of filming 

      • Working with the Director 

      • Follow the schedule and complete the shot list

      • Managing the Set

    • Health and Safety 

    • Troubleshooting Common Issues 

    • Conflict Resolution

    • Managing Actors and Extras

This workshop includes practical exercises and assignments such as script breakdowns, creating call sheets, and preparing a location scout report. These will be especially useful for finding future jobs in the industry.

We will also provide resources and tools such as templates for call sheets, schedules, and shot lists. Recommend reading materials and online resources for further study.

We will provide a Certificate upon completion of this workshop.