A day in the life of a Runner

SO Monday, I worked as a Production Assistant (aka runner) on a small film set. It was pretty cool. These are my top ten things I learnt from my experience.

1. Always have a pen.

The first thing I got asked to do upon arrival was to go round all the extras and get them to sign contracts. After handing me a pile of blank ones, the assistant director then said 'I'll just get you a pen..' to which I, having spent my tube journey cram reading the runners handbook chapter headed 'the importance in being prepared', replied 'oh no its ok, I have a few in my bag'.

Millions of pens must have drowned on the set of Titanic

This wasn't strictly speaking wrong, its just that after 15 minutes of searching and testing, I only found one pen in my bag that was capable of producing a squiggle on the back of my hand. I then discovered that the great relief I experienced in finding this pen was soon to be replaced by the pen becoming The Bane Of My Life. The extras, like me, were unprepared for writing and more than half of them needed a pen to fill their contract out. I ran around everywhere, suddenly a chauffeur of the pen, met by moody impatient faces in one corner and overly friendly 'you-might-be-the-director' faces in the other. And then occasionally I'd pass the Assistant Director and she'd ask me if I'd done the contracts yet, and I would cheerily say something like 'almost!'. It was a nightmare. The first thing I will make sure I have when running again is
PENS. pens pens pens. God save the pen.

2. You are not important

Oh no don't misunderstand me, Production Assistant is a very important job. You, your wants and needs, however, are not. I don't mean this in a harsh or rude way; the crew on set were more than friendly, and by the end of the day I had gotten to know a few of them quite well. What I mean, is that my welcoming to running was not like any other job. I sidled onto the set 20 minutes early, only to be met with blank faces that clearly had no idea who I was. Thinking of my application and the 'enthusiastic, passionate' girl I had described (vom), I addressed the whole set with 'Hi I'm Lucy Middleton and I'm a production assistant today!'. There was a silence. Everyone stared. Then a dark haired man glanced up and said 'yeah go sit in the corner and be quiet'. Oh ok.
I sat there and watched them finish filming the scenes they were doing as the two other runners for the day arrived. I was waiting for someone to come over and tell me what I was doing today, or hand me some tasks but no one came. It wasn't until I saw one of the other runner girls get up and ask the crew if they needed any help that I realised there was no introduction- my job had already begun.

3. You will come home with chalk in your pockets

And quite right too. Unless of course, you are working on a swanky Hollywood set that has digitalised clapper boards. But even then, the chalk was used for numerous jobs from marking equipment to spots on the floor. Never before have I felt such a sense of pride from just being able to answer 'wheres the chalk?!' with 'I've got some!' before running over and presenting it like some kind of precious jewel, 'BEHOLDD, the chalkkk'. Learning how to write on the clapper board with the chalk is also a must- fives that look like threes ruin lives.

4. Schloer makes great fake wine

One schloer, shaken not stirred

Later in the evening it was my task to pour out 'fake' drinks in a variety of glasses for the extras on set. This was weirdly one of my favourite tasks of the day as I got to get a range of glasses from under the bar and essentially make props for the film. I chose the straws (obviously a huge responsibility- black is classy, neon is a no no), the drink colours, and then was on standby for top ups for the main actors. It also meant I mingled with the extras a lot, and they kept me busy with questions ('yes you can have a cigarette break soon'/'No its not real alcohol')

5. Everything always runs late

Ahh this is not an original tip, but comes to you from the sound guy I got chatting too. We made friends when the director was shooting background shots and there was nothing really for us to do. I was told things were a bit behind when I first arrived, but as the day went on it became more and more clear that time was running out. Later on, I found myself trapped between a stressed director and perfectionist assistant director as they shouted at each other across my face (see number 2). I looked over pleadingly to the sound guy who simply shook his head and as soon as they left came over and whispered knowingly 'they ALWAYS run late.'           

6. Everyone else is probably more tired than you

To be honest I don't know how true this is of other film sets. But having left feeling pretty knackered from working seven hours on set, I was appalled to find everyone else was currently running on three hours sleep and wouldn't be leaving for another three hours after me. As well as realising this meant I had to be even more energetic, it also demanded some understanding for the grouchiest and most irritable members of the crew. It also meant that any shining examples of helpfulness I could perform, were met with genuine gratitude, as having more sleep showed its advantages. I couldn't complain.

 

7. Know how to fold

Who knew folding was the key to Harry Potter's success

There is a lot of folding involved in running. It might not seem obvious, but there is a lot to be folded from sheets to equipment, to film gels. I for one use the technique taught to me in brownies, where two people hold each end and repeatedly meet in the middle. Works like a charm.

 

8. Run everywhere

I read in my handy little handbook that a production assistant should never be seen sitting down and should run everywhere with every task given. That's understandable; your job is to be the spare hands for everybody, and so sitting down or walking would seem reckless in a job that's all about doing all things for all people, fast. however what I didn't expect, was how good running everywhere actually makes you feel. You feel great! Your task feels all the more urgent, you feel impressive and that everyone is looking at you thinking you're doing a complicated technical task- in reality you're just getting the director water because you saw him cough. Glamorous.

 

9. Turn your phone off

No one wants to be that guy who ruined the shot. When the director wants silence, any noise becomes a reason for a glare or an angry 'CUT' followed by 'phones OFF please' spat out in disgust. Ok, it wasn't that bad but there were a couple of phones going off whilst I was there and although there was no punishment, the shame is pretty deafening. What's more, turning your phone off means that at the end of the days shooting you are likely to be met with some texts, even if they are only from your mum.

10.  And most importantly... Take Charge

But really, the most important thing I learnt about being a runner is confidence, and the ability to take charge. In my first hour I felt shy and hesitant towards accepting tasks. But I soon learnt, that it was massively hindering me in the job. No matter how much you feel uncomfortable, or like you don't know what you're doing, you have to take charge and have authority to get jobs done properly. For example, when doing the contracts, in order to check I had done everyone, I repeatedly counted the contracts and the people, scurrying around double checking several times. I missed one girl out. If I had been doing my job properly I would have shouted out to everyone on set, as the director later did, whereby she would've, and did, make her presence known.

After the contract fiasco I realised the other two girls were doing a lot better than me and I was determined not to be the weak chain. So the next time the three of us were asked if someone could move the lights, I headed straight over and just did it. Pretty soon it became second nature. By the end of the day I was communicating directly with the director, joining discussions with solutions to problems and turning off lights before I'd even been asked (whether they needed it or not!). In one way it was partially because I knew what I was doing a tiiiiny bit more, but I also got comfortable on set talking to people and being assertive. Besides, anyone that didn't hire you has no idea you have no idea what you're doing! This dawned on me when I got asked if I was the director by no less than seven extras. People give you authority because they don't know any better. Take it. And enjoy it. Bossing people around is not overrated.

Making friends on the Lord of the Rings set, Orcs are people too 

Overall I had a really great day. I loved chatting to everyone on set in the small chances I got, and left with two phone number swaps as well as a good bitch about De Montford Uni mid filming ("I always used to look over at Leicester Uni and think 'now thats a real Uni'"- so do we all mate). There was a wide range of people to get to know from all different backgrounds, all with different projects on the go that they were really passionate about. When I wasn't needed I also tried to position myself behind the camera so that I could see the kind of shot the director was capturing which was always amazingly more impressive than the reality. By the end, the super nervousness I had before working had gone and I really really enjoyed it! I was so lucky to get the opportunity and can't wait to do more. Tomorrow I'm filming as an extra for a music video so it will be interesting to see what its like on the other side of the camera.

Till then! :)

13 films to look out for in 2013

13. 

The Wolverine
Who:  Hugh Jackman, Hiroyuki Sanada, Hal Yamanouchi Directed by: James Mangold
When: July 2013
Hugh Jackman's not doing too bad for himself at the moment is he? In his sixth reprisal of Wolverine, Jackman travels to Japan to learn more about a mysterious figure from his past. Admittedly, X-Men Origins: Wolverine is no one's favourite of the X-Men films, and along with an unusual choice of director (James Mangold- Walk the Line/Girl, Interrupted), predictions on the successes of this solo pursuit arent massively positive. Added to this is the setting of Japan itself- from a personal point of view a franchise film set abroad often turns out to be an old story in a new country. However, it is still one of the best X-men characters back in the limelight, and it is clear the mystery behind Wolverine is not yet resolved. Moreover Jackman is brilliant as iconic hero, and his acting, as well the movies huge budget, make this film well worth a try.

12.

Trance
Who: James MacAvoy, Rosario Dawson, Vincent Cassel Directed by: Danny Boyle
When: 27th March 2013
There's not much to be known about Danny Boyle's new film except that it stars James McAvoy, Rosario Dawson, and looks bloody fantastic. Only a simple synopsis has been released by the director, stating the movie tells a story of 'a fine art auctioneer mixed up with a criminal gang who joins forces with a hypnotherapist to recover a lost painting'... thanks Danny, you really cleared a lot up there. Yet it is clear however, that this film has more to it than most thriller/dramas, blurring the lines between reality, the unconscious desire and exploring the powers of hypnotism. Boyle demonstrated his creativity knows no limits with the Olympic opening ceremony in 2012 and hopefully Trance will be see the continuation of his successes into the new year.

11.

Anchorman: the legend continues
Who: Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, David Koechner Directed by: Adam Mckay
When: December 2013
Back after almost ten years, Ron Burgundy returns this December with the same cast that made the original hit. Little has been released of the plot, but considering the amount of ad-libbing Ferrell has become renowned for, anything could have happened between script writing and production. Since the original movie almost all of news team have kept their feet firmly in the business of comedy, so there seems to be no reason why this sequel shouldn't contain all the humour, charm and sexist fun it did the first time.  Either way, its bound to draw in thousands of fans on its release. Lets hope it doesn't disappoint.


10. 

The Lone Ranger
Who: Armie Hammer, Johnny Depp, Tom Wilkinson Directed by: Gore Verbinski
When: December 2013
All be it the sound of Gore Verbinski and Johnny Depp reuniting once again since Pirates is not something that generates excitement, on a second look it might just be exactly what this old western story needs. With Armie Hammer taking up the mask and Depp in the role as companion Tonto, this retelling looks set to be more fun and humorous then its 2003 predecessor. The film promises to focus more on Tonto too, perhaps a recipe for success provided Depp doesn't steal the show, Captain Jack Sparrow style.

9.

 Jack Ryan
Who: Chris Pine, Kenneth Branagh, Keira Knightley, Kevin Costner Directed by: Kenneth Branagh
When: Late December 2013
Jack Ryan returns in what looks like one of the biggest action movies of the year. Played by Chris Pine, Ryan has not yet joined the CIA in this film, but boy is he still in for some drama. The plot follows the action film rulebook by giving its title character too much to do in a short amount of time; Ryan is framed as an enemy of the state and must go on the run, using his special set of skills (hello Liam Neeson) to prove his innocence, protect his wife as well as trying to keep himself alive. Perhaps a predictable story but boy does it look good. The film is set to be released on Christmas day in the states, hopefully coming to the UK shortly after.

8. 

The World's End

Who: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Rosamund Pike Directed by: Edgar Wright
When: 14th August 2013
Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are back in the cinemas with a scifi comedy, written by Pegg and Director Edgar Wright. The film follows a group of five who have been friends since childhood, as they attempt to take on the legendary bar crawl of their youth, ending in the infamous 'Worlds End' pub. Described by Wright as a 'social sci-fi', its set to be one of the comedies of the year. Moreover, filmed in Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire, its worth viewing purely for the scenery, so that locals like myself can then forever annoy you with pipes of 'I've been there' when in discussion.


7. 

Man of Steel
Who: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Diane Lane Directed by: Zack Snyder
When: June 2013
A reboot of the Superman films, Man of Steel is taking the the most famous DC comic book character back to his origins, with the superheroes journey right from the beginning. Recently it has been the other superpower legends such as DC comic's own Batman, or Marvel's Thor and the Avengers hitting the screens, but it seems its finally time for Clark Kent to make a comeback. And who knew? Screw everything you've been told, Superman was actually British. Actor Henry Cavill will take the lead amongst an otherwise all American cast.

6. 

Star Trek into Darkness
Who: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldaña, Benedict Cumberbatch Directed by: J.J. Abrams
When: May 2013
With the last Star Trek film overceeding all expectations bestowed upon it, Stars Trek into Darkness has a tough act to follow. However judging from the trailer, it looks like the scifi franchise has stepped up. Darker, more dangerous, with a threat that puts the whole world into crisis, the team look as though they are to be tested, in scenes of epic destruction and villainous mind games, accompanied by a dramatic score by Michael Giacchino. Furthermore, fans of scifi will be excited to see what Benedict Cumberbatch is like as the bad guy. If his sinister voiceover on the trailer is anything to go by, there couldn't be anyone else better for the role.

5.

The Great Gatsby
Who: Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, Tobey Maguire Directed by: Baz Luhrman
When: May 2013

Based on the novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, this adaptation of the 1920s classic promises to get it’s audience practically paralytic on the glamour and glitz of the era. The trailer, released last year, is almost a miniature whirlwind of parties, romance and self indulgence, taunting the viewer with Dicaprio’s cool voice describing the world they cannot yet enter. This perhaps is only slightly ruined by the use of No Church in the Wild as the principal music, taking the edge what really should be a wholly vintage film. However, as the only trailers released thus far, it remains to be seen how true to the story Luhrman has played this one. Yet with DiCaprio in the lead as Jay Gatsby ('The man in the cool beautiful shirts' as Carey Mulligan's Daisy puts it), the film is in good hands, and there is no reason to doubt that it will be catching the Oscars’ attention. 

4. 

The Hunger Games: Catching fire
Who: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth Directed by: Francis Lawrence
When: November 2013
Another sequel out this year, Catching Fire promises to be as fast paced, exciting and as spot on to the books as its first installment. Jennifer Lawrence reprises her role as brave, accidental revolutionist Katniss Everdeen as she learns that it doesn't do well to piss of President Snow and finds that life after the Hunger Games is not really much better than life inside it. Seeing as the first film did the novels by Suzanne Collins far more justice then any other teenage fiction adaption in the last few years,  it is bound to be one of the highest grossing films of the year. Expect action, games, unrequited love stories and remorseless killing. As always. Happy Hunger Games.

3. 

Monsters University
Who: John Goodman, Bill Crystal Directed by: Dan Scanlon
When: June 2013
Sully and Mike Wazowski are back in Pixar's much anticipated brand new animation, a prequel to the 2001 favourite, Monsters, inc. This time, the film will be taking the monsters' stories right back to when they first met- university. Pixar never do things by half; you can view the teasers on youtube, or even consider joining the campus yourself on the university's very own webpage http://monstersuniversity.com/edu/. With this kind of attention to detail you can expect a real family gem that you will leave you wishing you too were a young monster back in the day.

2.

Iron Man 3

Who: Robert Downey Jr, Don Cheadle, Gwenyth Paltrow Directed by: Shane Black
When: May 2013

One of the most exciting films of the year, Robert Downey Jr is back as Iron Man in his third solo film. After being part of the biggest team up movie The Avengers, Tony Stark faces a new threat that is not only dangerous but personal; The Mandarin. With Stark frantically worrying over the safety of those he loves, the ground seems to slip away beneath his feet as he gets swept up in a vicious plot against him. As with all superhero films, those moments when it appears that this may actually be it, that the hero has been beaten, are edge-of-seat suspense-might-kill-me cinema gold. Especially if they're followed by a comeback. With the brilliance of the two previous Iron man films to go on, this threequel looks action packed, powerful and is not to be missed. 

1.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Who: Martin Freeman, Ian Mckellen, Richard Armitage, Andy Serkis Directed by: Peter Jackson
When: December 2013

Only just released in the last month, the first part of Peter Jackson's Hobbit triology has set the standard high for the second installment, The Desolation of Smaug. Brilliantly acted the film took many by surprise, particularly with its wonderful detail beyond the book, with references to JRR Tolkien's post-humus publications which revealed more about the history of Middle Earth. Moreover it was indeed the preset for an epic journey, so cleverly written that the audience themselves followed Bilbo Baggins in his incredulous belief towards the plan, to his realisation of its real meaning and importance to the dwarves. This prequel promises to continue the quest with the same level as bravery, bloodshed, and sense of unexpected humor and charm. What is more, underlying it all is a story of homeland, and brotherhood, and as the group of dwarves, wizard and hobbit grew stronger, so did the audiences attachment to them, leading to its continuation being a must see, so that they too could continue their journey.