The schedule of a movie set, particularly the daily plan for filming, is primarily managed through a document known as the shooting schedule.
Understanding the Movie Set Schedule
The schedule for a movie set is a dynamic plan that dictates the day-to-day activities required to film the script. The most critical document for daily operations on set is the shooting schedule.
The Shooting Schedule: A Key Document
According to production practices, the shooting schedule is a production document detailing which scenes and shots will be filmed on a particular shoot day. This essential guide ensures that filming progresses efficiently and on track.
Who Creates the Shooting Schedule?
The responsibility for creating the shooting schedule falls to the 1st assistant director (AD). The 1st AD is a key figure on set, managing the daily flow of production.
How is it Created?
The 1st AD doesn't create the schedule from scratch. They compile it using several foundational production documents:
- Shot List: A breakdown of every specific shot needed for each scene.
- Shooting Script: The version of the screenplay used for filming, often with scene numbers and revisions.
- Script Breakdown: A detailed analysis of the script, identifying all elements required for each scene (actors, props, locations, special effects, etc.).
- Stripboards (if available): A visual tool used in traditional scheduling to arrange scenes in a logical filming order based on location, cast, and other factors.
By combining information from these sources, the 1st AD organizes the complex requirements of the script into a practical, day-by-day shooting plan.
What Information Does it Contain?
A typical shooting schedule for a given day includes details such as:
- Date: The specific day of filming.
- Day Number: Which day of the overall production schedule it is.
- Scenes to be Filmed: The specific scene numbers from the script.
- Shot Descriptions: Details about the camera angles and actions for each shot.
- Cast Involved: Which actors are needed for the scheduled scenes.
- Location: Where filming will take place (e.g., "Main House - Living Room", "Exterior Park").
- Time Estimates: How long each scene or setup is expected to take.
- Call Times: When cast and crew are required to be on set or at a specific location.
- Other Requirements: Notes on props, costumes, special equipment, or effects needed for the day's filming.
This detailed document allows the entire cast and crew to know exactly what is expected, where they need to be, and when, facilitating a structured and productive workday on the movie set.
