WHAT DOES THE AD DEPARTMENT DO?
Mentees of the Take One Youth Film Program with a concentration in Assistant Directing will exit the program with an understanding of why the communication of the AD department is so crucial. The importance of written communication and how to give and receive oral communication respectfully under pressure. Mentees will learn the basics of pre-production with an introduction to Celtx, be able to identify production reports for each department all while gaining the knowledge of each AD role. They will also go through tutorials on how to properly set up and use walkie-talkie radios and megaphones making them well rounded Assistant Directors on set as they work to get production crews set up and cast through hair makeup and wardrobe successfully and on time on production day.
The AD (Assistant Director) Department is made up the First AD, Second assistant director (2nd AD), and Third assistant director (3rd AD).
THE FIRST ASSISTANT (AD)
The first assistant director (AD) is the director’s right hand. First ADs plan the filming schedule, working with the director, director of photography and other heads of department to ensure an efficient shoot.
In pre-production, they break down the script, analyzing it for what will be needed in terms of cast, locations, equipment and crew. They lead recess, going off to locations to assess their suitability for filming.
2ND AD
The second is the main off-set contact with some of the other departments such as production, locations and facilities. On each day of filming the second must prepare and draw up the next day’s call sheet.
3rdD AD
Thirds are the 1st AD’s right-hand man on set. They are responsible for coordinating extras, preparing and cueing them as well as sometimes directing them in any required background action.
