Overview
Film productions operate on tight schedules with highly interdependent crews, meaning that even a single absence can significantly affect the day’s work. This protocol outlines the procedures for communicating absences, redistributing responsibilities, and maintaining continuity when a crew member is unable to participate in production activities.
The purpose of these guidelines is not only to protect the production schedule, but also to reinforce the professional expectation that filmmakers must communicate proactively and help ensure the stability of the larger team. Student productions depend on collaboration, flexibility, and accountability. Establishing clear contingency procedures helps minimize disruption while teaching students how professional productions adapt to unexpected staffing challenges.
FC Protocol
If a crew member is unable to report to work during principal photography, they must contact the show’s Producer and the Head of Production as soon as possible, and no later than two hours before call time.
The Producer and the Head of Production will then work through the following steps in sequence to determine the most appropriate solution:
- If the Director is unable to work, advance to Step 8.
- Bring the On-Call crew member on as a day player. If that is not viable, then…
- Check to see if there is another first-year MFA student who isn’t working that day and is interested in filling in. If that is not viable, then…
- Check to see if having a smaller crew and consolidating positions will work. If that is not viable, then…
- Check to see if there is a second-year MFA student who is interested in filling in. If that is not viable, then…
- Check to see if there is a second-year BFA student who is interested in filling in. If that is not viable, then…
- Check to see if there is a first-year BFA student who is able and interested in filling in. If that is not viable, then…
- Postpone or cancel the show, reworking the schedule as needed.