The Production Office
In our latest Chatmosa session titled "The Production Office," hosts Chad and Erin, along with special guest Erin Vitali, explored the intricate world of production office dynamics and the pathways to success within the film and television industry. With Erin’s extensive background, including her roles at Blumhouse Productions and her recent work on Netflix's "The Sandman," the session provided invaluable insights into the production office ladder and the unique challenges faced by professionals at different levels.
Starting off, Erin shared her unconventional journey into the film industry, recounting how a college math misstep pivoted her from pre-med to a fulfilling career in film. “I took a class completely at random and totally fell in love with it,” she said, illustrating the often serendipitous nature of career paths in entertainment.
Chad and Erin delved into the nitty-gritty of production roles, outlining the hierarchy in a production office. They discussed the essential tasks of production assistants (PAs) and production secretaries, emphasizing the importance of these foundational roles in the filmmaking process. As production coordinator, Erin explained, “It’s a difficult position because you have a lot of responsibility to get things out, but you don’t have a huge amount of authority,” underscoring the delicate balancing act required in coordinating a successful production.
Key takeaways from the session included the significance of mentorship and hands-on experience, as highlighted by Erin's journey from PA to production coordinator and eventually to her current role as a production manager. The hosts stressed the importance of being detail-oriented, noting that “you can tell how well a show is run by how clean their paperwork is,” which speaks to the critical nature of clear communication and organization in the production process.
Listeners were treated to anecdotes about the quirks of production office life, including the infamous ‘football’ – a central document containing crucial information for the crew. Erin shared, “it’s so interesting to learn another country’s way of doing things,” reflecting on her international experiences and the variations in crew expectations and overtime rules compared to the U.S.
The conversation became particularly engaging as the trio compared domestic and international production workflows. Erin's experience in the UK revealed stark differences in work culture, particularly regarding day length and overtime. “They care more about having a work-life balance than the United States,” she noted, citing challenges in managing crew schedules and ensuring compliance with local labor practices.
As the session wrapped up, the hosts encouraged budding filmmakers and production assistants to embrace every opportunity for growth, sharing insights on ongoing professional development within the industry. Erin remarked on the necessity of adaptability, stating, “You learn how to play nice when people are being difficult,” a sentiment that resonated as a practical piece of advice for navigating the complex dynamics of film production.
For our audience, this session served as a potent reminder of the essential roles played by production offices and the rich tapestry of experiences that shape careers in film and television. Join us next time as we continue to explore pivotal industry topics, and don’t forget to check out past episodes for more insights from entertainment professionals!