Addressing Common Film Production Issues

Film production is a dynamic environment with unique challenges. In this month’s Locamundo newsletter, we explore common on-set issues and provide practical solutions to ensure smoother operations.

1. Risk Analysis in Film Production

Conducting a thorough risk analysis can prevent major issues before they arise. In many cases, teams think that this is a paper tiger. Risk Analyses that are drawn up should be done by an acting person, who also has the task of checking that the risks identified in these Risk Analyses are taken very seriously and do not just become something you "have to" do. The risk analysis should be presented to production management, who should have the final say on whether the right measures have been taken.

Steps include:

• Identify Potential Hazards: Assess all aspects of the production to pinpoint risks.
• Evaluate Risk Severity: Determine the impact of each risk on the overall production.
• Mitigation Strategies: Develop contingency plans and preventative measures. Include and encourage whistleblowers to really take this issue very seriously. Failure at this point can lead not only to personal tragedies but unpredictable and unaffordable losses for the production company.

2. On-Set Accidents

Safety is paramount. This is a point that on paper is the employer's responsibility, but everyone on the team should feel that it is also their responsibility to speak up when accidents are around the corner. Prevent and manage incidents with:

• Implement Safety Protocols: Conduct safety briefings before every shoot. In all cases where there is a safety risk, this should be pointed out before the work is carried out. Telling someone that they should have worn a helmet when they have already suffered a head injury is something we do not want to see.
• First Aid Preparedness: Keep first aid kits stocked and ensure certified personnel are present. There must be a well-established routine where first aid equipment is checked on a daily basis. Keep in mind that materials tend to disappear during transfers.
• Emergency Response Plan: Establish a clear plan for handling serious accidents, including emergency contacts. Identify who on the team has medical knowledge. Train your staff in basic skills such as stopping bleeding, CPR, and how to use a defibrillator.

3. Scheduling Conflicts

Coordinating cast and crew availability can be complex. Strategies include:

• Flexible Scheduling: Develop a schedule that allows for quick adjustments in case of conflicts. This is an extremely difficult question. But if you start thinking about the worst that can happen, you realize that many times it may be damages that are ultimately regulated by insurance companies, but that you still have to have a backup plan. Even if it means a day of stock shoot filming, you fill the schedule with something that has to be done at some point. This point can also vary greatly based on which union rules a recording is subject to.
• Open Communication: Utilize scheduling software to keep all team members updated in real time. Make sure all your staff knows how these tools work. Offer free scheduled training.
• Backup Plans: Have alternative crew members and talent available in case of last-minute cancellations. Of course, it's not easy when it comes to actors. But for other staff, there should be a well-established emergency plan "who can we call?"

4. Location Challenges

Securing and managing filming locations requires planning. Solutions include:

• Thorough Scouting: Visit locations multiple times under different conditions to anticipate challenges.
• Obtain Permits Early: Start the permit application process well in advance to avoid disruptions.
• Logistics Planning: Arrange for parking, security, and necessary accommodations to ensure smooth operations.

5. Equipment Malfunctions

Technical failures can halt production. Prevent issues by:

• Regular Maintenance: Conduct thorough equipment tests before and after every shoot.
• Have Backups Ready: Store spare equipment on site to minimize downtime. What happens if your camera and lenses get completely wrecked? How quickly can you get them replaced? How quickly can you get a replacement camera? Talk to your suppliers about technical problems before they happen. Just like amen in church, it is just as self-evident that things will break during production. Just like amen in church, it is just as self-evident that things will break during production. Identify problems before they happen and you will minimize the damage. Why not make an action plan for the most critical components in your production?
• Train Crew: Ensure team members are trained to troubleshoot common technical issues quickly.