In the fast-paced world of film and television production, there is a role that often goes unnoticed, yet is absolutely vital to the smooth operation of any set. Production runners, also known as PAs or production assistants, are the unsung heroes who keep the gears turning behind the scenes. From fetching coffee to managing complex logistics, these hardworking individuals are the glue that holds productions together.
The Demanding Life of a Production Runner
Production runners are often the first to arrive on set and the last to leave. Their days are long, typically starting before sunrise and ending well after sunset. According to industry insiders, 12 to 14 hour days are the norm, with occasional 16 to 18 hour shifts not uncommon during crunch times.
You have to be prepared for anything and everything. One minute you’re making a coffee run, the next you’re coordinating a last-minute location change. It’s a constant adrenaline rush.
– Anonymous production runner
Despite the demanding hours, most runners wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. Being a part of the creative process and watching a project come to life from behind the scenes is incredibly rewarding.
No Task Too Small
A typical day for a production runner involves a dizzying array of tasks. From picking up and delivering scripts, to managing petty cash, to arranging transportation for cast and crew, no job is too small or menial. Attention to detail is critical, as even the tiniest mistake can derail a production.
- Fetching coffee, snacks, and meals
- Distributing call sheets and other paperwork
- Running errands for producers, directors, and actors
- Assisting with set decoration and props
- Crowd control and assisting extras
You quickly learn that there’s no room for ego in this job. If a director asks you to get them a specific brand of sparkling water from across town, you do it with a smile.
– Former production runner turned assistant director
A Stepping Stone in the Industry
For many aspiring filmmakers and television professionals, being a production runner is a rite of passage. It’s an opportunity to learn the ropes, make connections, and prove your worth in an incredibly competitive industry.
Successful runners are those who anticipate needs, solve problems before they happen, and maintain a positive attitude no matter the challenge. Those who excel in the role often move on to other positions in the production hierarchy.
Nearly everyone in the industry started out as a PA at some point. It’s where you learn the importance of hard work, humility, and thinking on your feet. Those skills stay with you no matter how high you climb.
– Veteran producer who began as a production runner
The Unsung MVPs
So next time you watch a movie or binge your favorite TV show, take a moment to think about the army of production runners who made it all possible. These hardworking, often underappreciated individuals are the true unsung heroes of the entertainment industry.
Being a runner is exhausting, stressful, and often thankless. But it’s also exhilarating, educational, and incredibly fun. I wouldn’t trade my time as a PA for anything.
– Former production runner now working as a screenwriter
From the outside, the glitz and glamor of show business can seem alluring. But it’s the dedication and tireless efforts of production runners that truly keep the dream factory running. They may not get the spotlight, but they are undeniably the backbone of the industry.
