Don’t Fear the Reaper

Don’t Fear the Reaper is a small, proving script that I was asked to 3rd AD on by Trisha Mistry, who was the Producer. This script was developed from a larger script wrote by the DOP which will also be filmed as a major next year.

As a 3rd Assistant Director on a location shoot with quite a few runners, it’s quite hard to keep on top of things. This film was shot in a restaurant/bar in Didsbury, Manchester and it was quite a busy day as it was also Halloween. There was a lot of families coming in and out of the restaurant using where we were shooting so I had to make sure that they were either stopped until the shot was finished or that they were re-directed by my runners. After a few hours in, I was asked to be an extra as a bartender. As one of my responsibilities as a 3rd AD is to make sure the extras were being correct in their movements whilst shooting, it only seemed reasonable for me to step in as this extra.

“P3 liase between relevant people to ensure the swift and effective movement of performers and contributors between the set ant uni base”

However, during filming the 1st AD had to step off set and quickly asked me to cover for him as the 1st AD. I took this task hands on, found out what shot was going to be next and negotiated this with the Director and the DOP. Luckily, the 1st was back just in time for shooting so I could get back behind the bar!

“P8 co-ordinate Runners on set, instructing appropriately and delegating supervisin of relevant tasks”

When on set with Becca she is always an asset. She is ready for any challenge that is thrown at her and knows the responsibilities of each role she is in. Even when the unexpected occurs such as being an extra, without hesitation she jumps straight in and is always ready to help in any way she can. Becca is reliable, proactive, enthusiastic and a team player. I would not hesitate to have the chance to have Becca on set again.

Trisha Mistry, Producer