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Second Unit Director

Directs second unit — action, inserts, establishers and stunts — matching the main unit's style.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Plan second unit shots with Director
• Direct action with Stunt Coordinator
• Match look and continuity

Reports to

Director / Producer

Works with

2nd Unit DoP, Stunt Coordinator, SFX, 2nd Unit AD

Career path

Episode Director / Stunt Coordinator → Second Unit Director

Day to day

Runs a separate unit on action and pickups; sends material to editorial for the Director's approval.

Call times

Director calls with the 1st AD before unit call for blocking; wraps after rushes/next-day prep. Prep and post follow office/edit hours.

What to wear

Smart-casual in the office; practical layers and comfortable shoes on set.

Tools & kit

Laptop, phone, notebook, budget and schedule documents.

Tips

Confirm credit, fee, schedule of payments, exclusivity and any backend on a signed deal memo or contract before starting.

Software

• Scriptation / PDF annotation
• Shot Designer / storyboard tools
• Movie Magic Scheduling (read-only)
• ChatGPT for draft shot-list notes (Director approves)

Related roles

Director, Episode Director

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