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Payton
Student
Lusk, WY
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What are the average hours for a movie director?
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3 answers
Gabrielle Nichols
8
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Gabrielle’s Answer
The amount of time a movie director spends working can greatly differ based on the stage of production they're in. In the pre-production and post-production stages, a director's workweek usually ranges from 50 to 60 hours, offering a bit of flexibility.
However, when it comes to the actual shooting phase, the working hours can drastically increase. Directors often find themselves working from 12 to 16 hours each day, for six or even seven days a week. They are responsible for overseeing on-set activities and working closely with the crew. This hectic schedule can result in weeks of extended working hours, especially when deadlines are near.
During the height of production, it's not unusual for directors to clock in anywhere between 60 to 80 hours per week. Given the rigorous demands of the role, it's crucial for directors to manage their time wisely. This helps them maintain their creative flow and handle stress effectively.
However, when it comes to the actual shooting phase, the working hours can drastically increase. Directors often find themselves working from 12 to 16 hours each day, for six or even seven days a week. They are responsible for overseeing on-set activities and working closely with the crew. This hectic schedule can result in weeks of extended working hours, especially when deadlines are near.
During the height of production, it's not unusual for directors to clock in anywhere between 60 to 80 hours per week. Given the rigorous demands of the role, it's crucial for directors to manage their time wisely. This helps them maintain their creative flow and handle stress effectively.
Tiphani Law
Filmmaker
1
Answer
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Tiphani’s Answer
The work hours of a director can significantly vary depending on the type of film they're directing. For instance, scripted shows are meticulously planned and organized so that they can be filmed efficiently and cost effectively making the hours pretty consistent and on union films they’re pretty much regulated to around 60 hours a week. This is to ensure the cast and crew aren't subjected to unhealthy or dangerous working conditions. However, the director often puts in an extra 10 to 20 hours.
On the other hand, unscripted shows like reality programs and documentaries are filmed as events unfold, making the work schedule unpredictable. Drawing from my personal experience as a firefighter and working on film projects with the National Advanced Fire Resource Institute and the Lessons Learned Center, I can attest that during high-adrenaline situations, it's easier to film non-stop for 48 hours than it is to make yourself take a break. This is especially true if you're deeply passionate about filmmaking.
In the past, the film industry was unforgiving to those who complained about long work hours. With productions incurring costs upwards of a quarter-million dollars per day on location fees, equipment rentals, labor, food, supplies, permits, and more, every missed hour of filming translated to a loss of $20,000. Regardless of personal circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies, you were expected to carry on with your work or risk losing your career in the industry.
However, the industry is evolving. The advent of technology and the adaptations necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that exceptions can be made and alternative solutions can be found. The notion that film industry workers should not have sick days is now being challenged. As a result, changes are underway, and it's possible that in the coming decade, filmmaking might become a 40 hour work week but I highly doubt any passionate director could stop themselves from putting in an additional 10 to 20 hours above and beyond that!
On the other hand, unscripted shows like reality programs and documentaries are filmed as events unfold, making the work schedule unpredictable. Drawing from my personal experience as a firefighter and working on film projects with the National Advanced Fire Resource Institute and the Lessons Learned Center, I can attest that during high-adrenaline situations, it's easier to film non-stop for 48 hours than it is to make yourself take a break. This is especially true if you're deeply passionate about filmmaking.
In the past, the film industry was unforgiving to those who complained about long work hours. With productions incurring costs upwards of a quarter-million dollars per day on location fees, equipment rentals, labor, food, supplies, permits, and more, every missed hour of filming translated to a loss of $20,000. Regardless of personal circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies, you were expected to carry on with your work or risk losing your career in the industry.
However, the industry is evolving. The advent of technology and the adaptations necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that exceptions can be made and alternative solutions can be found. The notion that film industry workers should not have sick days is now being challenged. As a result, changes are underway, and it's possible that in the coming decade, filmmaking might become a 40 hour work week but I highly doubt any passionate director could stop themselves from putting in an additional 10 to 20 hours above and beyond that!
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Payton!
The hours for a movie director can vary quite a bit depending on the project, but it’s definitely a demanding job! During pre-production, directors might work around 40 to 60 hours a week as they plan everything from casting to shooting schedules. Once filming starts, the hours can ramp up significantly, often ranging from 10 to 14 hours a day, sometimes even longer, especially during busy shooting days.
Directors are also involved in post-production, which can add more hours as they work on editing, sound design, and finalizing the film. All told, it’s not unusual for directors to work 60 to 80 hours a week during peak times.
While it’s a lot of work, the job can be really rewarding, especially when you see your vision come to life on screen! Plus, the energy and excitement of being on set can make those long hours feel worth it. Just be prepared for a serious commitment if you want to dive into directing!
The hours for a movie director can vary quite a bit depending on the project, but it’s definitely a demanding job! During pre-production, directors might work around 40 to 60 hours a week as they plan everything from casting to shooting schedules. Once filming starts, the hours can ramp up significantly, often ranging from 10 to 14 hours a day, sometimes even longer, especially during busy shooting days.
Directors are also involved in post-production, which can add more hours as they work on editing, sound design, and finalizing the film. All told, it’s not unusual for directors to work 60 to 80 hours a week during peak times.
While it’s a lot of work, the job can be really rewarding, especially when you see your vision come to life on screen! Plus, the energy and excitement of being on set can make those long hours feel worth it. Just be prepared for a serious commitment if you want to dive into directing!