7 RED FLAGS to watch out for when applying to a film set job: avoiding dumpster fires

The film industry is BOOMING. The number of films released each year has increased exponentially in recent years. It is estimated that the number of films released in 2023 will be around 2,500. As a result, the demand for filmmakers is at an all-time high.

We live in a time when the film industry is changing and evolving. These changes have created new opportunities for filmmakers but also new challenges. Therefore, one of the most important things to do when looking for a job as a filmmaker is to watch out for red flags.

Why Should I Watch Out for Red Flags When Getting Hired?

Getting caught up in the excitement of a new filming opportunity is easy. But before you sign on the dotted line, it's essential to be aware of some red flags that may indicate that the production company is not what it seems.

The one thing about making movies is to know that this industry is not supposed to be considered a hobby. This is a ride-or-die industry, and you are either all in or not.

Top 7 Red Flags to Look out for

The world of movie-making has changed a lot in the past decade. With the advent of technology, it is now possible to make movies with a small budget and few people. The downside is that many mistakes are made because of a lack of experience and knowledge. However, these can help you avoid amateurs & unorganized garbage fires.

The 7 red flags that filmmakers should watch out for are:

1.Improperly Written Scripts - The Script is the product that the company sells to the world. Think of the script like buying a car. No car is the same; it all has good and bad qualities. The most extensive critical advice to take away is to READ THE ENTIRE SCRIPT. I can't stress this enough because I know some people that will receive a script and just create a shot list to film it or arrive on set and figure it out as you go. Don't do this... Please, take the extra time and study the product. You may find things within this script that won't align with your beliefs or the genre you like to shoot.

Scripts are a vital part of any film, and it is crucial to have a well-written script with good dialogue. In addition, it should be well thought out and engaging for the audience to enjoy.

1.5 Underdeveloped characters: Each character must have their own personality, traits, strengths, and weaknesses to be more relatable to the audience. This can help them better connect with each character instead of seeing them as just actors. So here is the truth: You either have a 2d character and a stale script or a 3d character and a well-fleshed story.

2. The Director has an unclear vision - This is one grey area that I hear spoken about from other major players within this industry. If the Director you're working for has no vision, more than likely, it isn't going to be an organized set. A vision of every single portion of the film is vital.

3. There are no benefits or value for you or the other cast/crew - One thing Gordon spoke about in the podcast is that just because they don't pay doesn't mean it's terrible. Sometimes, they will make a trade that will provide value to you, or it might be something else. When screening them for the first time, you must ask yourself; What kind of value are they leaving me with. This can include portfolio work, education, experience, etc.

4. The Director, who is also an actor - When this occurs, 99% of the time, this will scream amateur. Directors should focus on one role, which is directing the actors. If their focus isn't on directing, the actors have no one to look up to. The DP and any other crew members on set don't have a say to call; CUT.

5. Lack of Respect - it is not uncommon for crew members to be treated disrespectfully by a director or producer. This can happen when they are yelled at, criticized, or ignored. It is important to remember that crew members are just as crucial to the production as the Director and producers. Build a network of people, do research on the project and the people you will be working with.

6.Bad Working Conditions - crew members are often exposed to unsafe working conditions such as extreme heat, cold temperatures, and unsafe environments like near power lines or open water sources. Crew members should always be aware of their surroundings. Suppose they see something that could be dangerous. In that case, they should speak up immediately so the production team can take action before anything terrible happens. You can usually spot these conditions within the script and then ask the Director how they envision this to be shot.

7. Lack of Marketing - The lack of creativity within the casting process, and this extends beyond what is on set. It extends to how films are marketed, with studios relying on traditional trailers and posters rather than new technologies like VR or AR to create more immersive marketing experiences for audiences. This is one thing that should be discussed during the initial interview before getting hired. Your value matters. Ask yourself, how will this project benefit me as a filmmaker?

8. Unequal Payments- If the company is requiring most of the crew or cast to work as 'volunteers' but paying for certain people like well-known actors, this can bring the production value down and reduce morale across the film. When choosing the correct film set, should everyone get paid, or no one gets paid. Expenses do not count for 'payment' either. If it's a legit production, they should know how to properly manage expenses and budget and what the expectations are for the said budget. An explicit agreement on your specific services to the production IN WRITING can help manage expectations on the film set. Hence, you only become responsible for some things and get overworked.

Top Five Ways To Evaluate Your Job Offer Before Taking It

When you get your first big break in the industry, it is tempting to just say yes and jump right in. First, however, it is essential to research and ensure that the job is a good fit for you. This will help you grow as an artist and ensure that the following offer isn't just a repeat of the last one.

Some things to consider before accepting a job are:

- Reading the screenplay

- Researching who will be directing on set

- Understanding what type of crew will be on set,

- What equipment or tools are needed, and if they have the proper budget for the tools.

- How many days per week you'll work, and what hours per day

How Safe Networking is the most important takeaway from this article

Networking is also considered your safety net. There will be people within your circle who know people outside of your circle and can advise you to either take the job or leave it hanging.

Networking is also considered your safety net. There will be people within your circle who know people outside of your circle and can advise you to either take the job or leave it hanging.

It's vital to be proactive regarding networking, meaning you want to take charge of your networking efforts rather than wait for opportunities to come knocking on your door.

Below we interview Gordon Willis Jr on this topic. He is a well-known cinematographer for those who don't know who he is. The movie-making business actually goes back 3 generations for his family. His dad's dad, his dad, and now him. Gordon Hughe Willis, or the Prince of Darkness, was the father of Gordon WIllis Jr, who was most known for his role as a DP on the set of Godfather.

Gordon Willis Jr was the only son that carried on the movie-making name within his family. But, of course, we will save his story for next week's blog/podcast. So today, let's hear his takes on this subject matter.