crew and cast's needs are
facilitated. The unit manager
deals with the transportation
captain and will make sure
sufficient parking is provided
to accommodate the unit—this
is an especially difficult task
in central London as our old
roads are so narrow and there
are only a select number of
unit bases and roads that can
fit our tech trucks.
Location assistants and
unit assistants are assigned
to location managers and
unit managers. They train
under them and do the same
work under supervision.
Each department will have
a location runner that goes
back-and-forth from the
studio, does department
shopping, petty cash runs
and residential letter drops.
Location marshalls work
mostly on set—locking off
pedestrians and crew, helping
lay floor protection, and
whatever is needed to prep
and strike locations. Location
security, where I began, is
overseen by the lead man who
will make sure all the hours
are on budget. Our security
is licensed to do the bigger
lock offs (London streets and
tourist areas). They will cone
off parking bays and help park
the trucks, watch equipment
and speak with residents.
I would encourage anyone
looking to get into locations
to go for it. We are a very
cultured department with
people from all walks of life.
We are naturally good with
people as we have to get into
the most weird and wonderful
places which means we are
very approachable. All you
need is the ability to work long
hours, self-motivate, take a
good picture and be good with
people. The rest you'll pick up
along the way. Hard work and
street smarts, coupled with a
bit of luck, can put you in the
driver's seat.
Scouting in Erfoud with Dune Films
