My 8 A’s - Axioms for Assistant Directors:
1) Alertness - Attend to what’s happening on and off the set RIGHT NOW
2) Accuracy - of Action, & Administration - (All Calls / All Details)
3) Anticipation -or- 3 AD self-inquiries to stay Ahead: a) After this shot prints, what will be the next shot? b) Approximately, how many shots remain to complete this sequence? c) Are we ready for the next sequence?
4) Alacrity - Time is of the essence - Concise & efficient, yes, but never careless — Always Allow Ample time for Safety on the Set.
5) Adherance to the “Three Rules of Production” (You can’t break one rule, without simultaneously breaking the other two) a) Never Assume Anything b) When in doubt - Ask c) Cover Your Ass
6) Accommodation - Accept, Adjust , and Alert others to those inevitable changes in shooting circumstances. Prompt transmission of Information to the crew.
7) Attitude - Stay Positive, Informative, Enthusiastic & Diplomatic
8) Authority - Respect it in those above you. Deserve the respect of the cast and crew by being a consistently knowledgable, kind, courteous & earnest hard worker.
