Episode 1x06 - John Blanford & Dan McDonough | From Set PAs To Producing Their First Feature Film

Trilith Institute Talks

Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks! This episode of Trilith Institute Talks features a detailed conversation with Producers John Blanford, and Dan McDonough of Pastime Pictures, who share their journey in the film industry, from starting as set production assistants (Set PAs) in Atlanta to producing their first feature film, 'The Boys of Summer.' Host Hunter Barcroft, alongside recent film graduate Aaron, delves into various aspects of filmmaking, including the transition from AD's (Assistant Director's) to Producer, the importance of a supportive and communicative set environment, the impact of technological advancements like virtual stages, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the demanding film industry. The discussion touches on themes of empowerment, creativity, and the evolving landscape of film production. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome to Trilith Institute Talks: The Journey of Filmmakers 00:46 - Introducing the Producers of Boys of Summer 01:26 - The Unique Paths into the Film Industry 08:26 - The Power of Adaptation and Learning on Set 10:18 - Transitioning from AD to Producer: A Learning Curve 13:19 - The Continuous Learning Journey in Filmmaking 15:52 - Navigating Challenges and Trust on Set 17:41 - Creating a Positive Set Culture with Pastime Pictures 23:03 - Reflecting on the Evolution of Set Culture in Atlanta 27:12 - The Importance of Experimentation and Learning in Filmmaking 29:04 - Overcoming Nervousness and Learning to Communicate on Set 30:46 - Navigating the Rolodex: Climbing the Industry Ladder 31:31 - The Coffee Catastrophe: A Lesson in Persistence 35:43 - From PA to Producer: Building a Brand During COVID 39:20 - Securing Mel Gibson: The High-Stakes Journey of 'Boys of Summer' 44:21 - Navigating Challenges: Animals, Budgets, and Work-Life Balance 51:19 - Embracing Change: Learning from the Next Generation 57:12 - Shifting Industry Paradigms: A Vision for a Better Work-Life Balance Film Industry Terminology In This Episode

Set PA’s: non-union, bottom of the totem pole workers on a film set (set production assistants)

First Team: a slang term referring to the cast/ acting talent on a film of movie

Day Playing: the act of working occasional days on a film set as part of the production staff

AD’ing: the act and/ or job of Assistant Directing on a film set

"Surfing The Channels": the act of flipping from channel to channel on a walkie talkie, which is widely used to communicate across departments on a film set

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