Gary White, 1st Assistant Director

Gary started in the film industry as a 3rd Assistant Director working on films including ‘Cromwell’, ‘Scrooge’ and ‘When Eight Bells Toll’.

He then worked as a 2nd Assistant Director on ‘Tommy’, ‘Valentino’ and ‘Agatha’.

In 1980s, he worked as 1st Assistant Director in both film and television. His many credits include: ‘Voyage Round My Father’, ‘A Very British Coup’, ‘The Missionary’, ‘The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne’ and ‘The Dressmaker’.

He has worked with many directors include Terry Gilliam, Richard Loncraine and Roland Joffe.

JOB PROFILE

During preparation, the 1st Assistant Director creates the shooting schedule within the availability of cast, locations and other departments’ requirements. During shooting he/she runs the floor and the daily schedule for the Director and the Director of Photography. With the Assistant Directors’ team, the 1st AD is responsible for all requirements for shooting including actors being on set on time in a state of readiness to work.

The 1st AD announces the progress on a shot-by shot, scene-by-scene basis.

The 2nd AD ensures the actors go through make-up and costume and that they are ready, on the set and on time. The 2nd AD prepares the following day’s call-sheet and gives EVERYBODY their call for the following day.

The 3rd AD helps the 2nd AD before the call time. He/she then works with the 1st AD on the floor keeping in constant communication with the 2nd AD on the work’s progress. The 3rd AD then helps the 2nd AD on wrap.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Script, schedule, call sheet, walkie-talkie, compass, pen, loud-hailer, PA system, whistle, and on days with large crowds – an awareness of time and a sense humour.

PEARLS OF WISDOM

  • Know the script
  • Know everybody’s name, particularly the actors
  • Know the day’s work - where you should be by lunchtime and be aware of any new faces on the set
  • Keep your eyes and ears open
  • BE EARLY