DIRECTORS SWEAT IT OUT TOO!

Whether it's feature films or commercials, there is a selection process that happens where a studio, or advertising agency, are combing through reels, making conference calls, reviewing production companies (in the commercial world), and reading director treatments. I'm going to talk specifically about the commercial directors process since that is what I am most familiar with.

Ad agency producers seek out director reels and production companies to execute a campaign. The reels (now usually just links) come from sales reps, executive producers, or other contacts the agency producer may have. Each link is usually put together in a custom fashion for the project at hand. This was not the norm a few short years ago, but with the ease of internet it is now the expected. In a way, this the same as an actor's "first call"...or even headshot.

Eventually the ad agency selects approx 3 to 6 directors/production companies they want to speak with. The conference call for a director is like a "call back" for actors. This is where a director really has to shine and make an impression. Just like with casting, sometimes the simplest things can make all the difference and usually we (the director) are in the dark about what the agency is "really" looking for. (Sound familiar?!). Once the call is over, the director writes a treatment and the producer puts together a budget ("bidding" the job). We send this in and then we wait it out.

The preparation I do for a conference call inspired a comedic short film called... of course... "The Conference Call"...take a look! Anyway, the point of this entry was to help actors understand that the director judging you is no stranger to being judged. Not taking it personal is key, and I feel I become better at calls and treatments the more I do... even if I don't get the job.

- Scott Young

Commercial Success/ Shoot a Scene. Edit Your Reel