2nd AD Responsibilities

Manage FC call sheets, base camp, actors, crew communication, and paperwork.

Overview

The 2nd Assistant Director focuses primarily on communication, paperwork management, and logistical coordination in support of the broader assistant directing team. Responsibilities typically include preparing call sheets, distributing production information, coordinating cast movement and crew communication, tracking schedules, and helping ensure that departments remain informed and organized throughout production.

While the 1st AD concentrates on running the set and managing the shooting day on the floor, the 2nd AD supports that process by handling much of the operational coordination that happens off the floor. Strong 2nd AD work helps productions stay organized, reduces communication breakdowns, and allows the production team to operate more efficiently under demanding schedules. The role also provides important experience in the organizational and administrative systems that support professional film production.

Pre-production

  • Help 1st AD coordinate the Tech Scout. Establish where the restrooms, parking, staging, base camp and set will be.
  • Prepare Crew Deal Memos for everyone at the production meeting.
  • Assist Producer in securing lunches, craft services, volunteers, and extras for all days of shooting.
  • Assist Producer in obtaining craft services the night before production.
  • Assist the Producer in casting by scheduling and participating in auditions if necessary.
  • Prepare and make copies of all the paperwork needed on set.
  • Create the Call Sheet, including maps. Have 1st AD approve it and email no later than 12 hours before the next day’s call time.
  • Communicate any changes to the schedule to the entire cast and crew.
  • Check the weather periodically to monitor adverse conditions. Have a back-up plan.
  • Double check every logistical piece of information and make sure nothing has been forgotten.

Production days

Start of day:

  • Arrive at set FIRST, at least 30 minutes before call time.
  • Open and establish contact with location. Record the state and location of things, ground rules.
  • Establish Base Camp.
    • Set up Base Camp with Walkies and Production iPad where crew will check in when they arrive.
    • Get the snacks and drinks from the Producer, and set up the craft service table.
  • When Grip Van arrives, verify they are parking in the correct place.
  • As crew members arrive, check them in using the Production iPad, and hand them a walkie.

Throughout the day:

  • Maintain the craft service table throughout the day to make sure it is stocked.
  • Stay at base camp and handle the phones, paperwork and actors. Know where everything and everyone is.
  • Remain in or near the Green Room with the Actors, except to escort them to/from set at 1st AD’s request.

Meals:

  • At lunch make sure everyone signs the Meal Sign-In Sheet.
  • Make periodic announcements on time remaining on lunch.
  • Make sure lunch does not exceed one hour.

End of day:

  • Complete the Performers Time Report, and have the actors sign it before they are dismissed for the day.
  • Make sure 2nd AC and Sound Mixer meet at end of day to verify their reports. Have them give you all reports.
  • Collect the camera card from the 2nd AC, and the sound card from the Sound Mixer, and deliver to Producer.
  • Have crew members sign out using the Production iPad and collect their walkie.
  • Organize any hard copies of Daily Production Paperwork, and scan them using the OneDrive app. Deliver the scanned files and the original hard copies to the Producer.
  • With Producer, clean and secure location. Be the LAST TO LEAVE (except perhaps Art Dept). Leave the location better than when you arrived.
  • Complete the DPR and have it approved by the 1st AD. Then distribute within 2 hours after wrap.

Post-production

  • Assist in wrapping production paperwork if necessary.