Amazon Rentals
Jamie writes in: I just got a job as a PA (really an unpaid intern) on an independent movie. They put with the production designer as part of the ‘art department’. (really just the two of us). She told me we would be using Amazon Rentals for most of the set decorations. I can’t seem […]
Ageism in Hollywood
Dianne writes in about ageism in Hollywood: Like most people who patrol your site I’m seeking work in the industry. However, I finished college 8 years ago and my major was in English and Creative Writing, and my internship (though competitive) was with a newspaper in Oregon. I would happily intern for no money to […]
You Have to Take Risks
Eric writes: I’ve been seeing a lot of postings for part time assistant positions. Is this the new wave of employment/new way of business since the economy is still in the crapper (articles writing about how the unemployment level is not at 5.5% more like 9%) and Hollywood tightening the belt everywhere? That being said, […]
Hand Delivery
If someone (whether it’s an accountant or a director or one of the camera assistants) hands you something to deliver, but doesn’t expressly state either “mail” or “hand deliver,” always, always ask.
How to Find the Number to the Production Office
Brooke writes in: I am looking for a specific internship on a production set and looking for information on whom to ask. I’m trying to find out through Warner Brothers if they know if there are internships on the production set of Supernatural. I researched for months about whom to contact and only yesterday was […]
When Do I Get a Call Sheet?
Elle writes in: I’m doing my non-paid, freelance internship as an Art Dept. PA. This one is a web-based, Emmy-nominated series. I’m asking the 2nd AD for a call sheet (or any information at all, like ‘Hey, yes, we need you tomorrow’) at 8 pm and getting the emailed call sheet at 2 a.m. with, […]
Nosce te Ipsum
Krista writes in: I am about to graduate high school and was searching for possible internships and PA jobs I could do over the summer before I head off to college. I found a small company whose website said that most positions would be paid but some might not because they’re on a small budget, […]
Video Interviews – Not a Thing
Sarah asks: I’m wondering if you’re familiar with interns/internships in the industry. I’ve applied to an internship with [studio]’s television development department, and I’ve received positive feedback–they’d like me to come in for an interview. The thing is, I’m a recent graduate and haven’t yet relocated to LA; i.e. I’d have to travel a few […]
When Will I Get Paid?
Emily writes in{{1}}: I recently worked for a major out-of-town TV show as a casting assistant, though it was technically my first time casting. Before then, I had been working for free as a PA and personal assistant and have another paid position coming up next year as a production coordinator. I’m currently job searching […]
When Is an Intern Not an Intern?
When she’s an unpaid PA, of course! B.W. writes in: Most of my experience comes from working for producers in the advertising world as an intern. I’ve been able to work on a lot of really great commercials with a lot of notable clients, but my positions were always “production intern,” “intern,” etc. However, in […]
Students Can’t be Choosers
Emily writes in: I noticed that you said certain PA jobs can only be found through a certain networking group within the industry. I am still a student, and looking into getting an internship in the area of television development/ Writer’s office. I have seen certain postings in the common areas such as entertainmentcareers and […]
What Can a Teenager Do?
Alexandria writes in: I’m a 17 year old aspiring filmmaker/screenwriter. I’m consistently making my own shorts, writing scripts, entering into festivals, etc. However, I really need to learn a little more about the business side of film, and working on shoots where I’m not the director, and that have a larger budget than a broke […]