I moved to LA like everyone else, to be in the entertainment business. I started out as an actor, fell for the production side, and after trying out different positions I discovered I was a pretty good AD. I didn’t know if it was my “forever career,” I just knew it was my “right now” career. I consistently worked as an AD for 2 years on various commercials, music videos, and feature films and most of the time it was pleasantly miserable. If you’re unsure of what an AD is, the best way to describe it would be the person that has all the answers and is the voice you will hear most frequently on set.
This business lacks equality for women. That’s why we have MsInTheBiz.com, Women in Film LA, Alliance of Women Directors, amongst others. These organizations see all the talented women trying to make it, and stand behind them because as they are just as good as the guys. Trust me, I am not saying hire women over men for the sake of feminist equality. I am, however, saying, hire the talent and give all the talent a chance. Don’t agree? Think women get the same opportunities? Being an AD and having a uterus made getting the job challenging at times. For the future of my career, I am going to keep names out of this. And still, I cringe.
On my way to an interview for which I was being considered for the 1st AD position, I had already had a flawless interview with the producer, who said, “All is good. Let’s just have you sit down with the director and I’ll work up your contract.” Great. I sit down for the interview. I rock it. I am confident and have answers for all his questions. I leave, feeling so good that I block out the dates and turn down two other jobs later that day. The following morning I get an email. “Hey Ally, nice meeting you yesterday. Your résumé looks great, and you are very talented. I have no doubt you are a great AD, but I am sorry to say that we are going to go with someone else. With that said, can I take you out to dinner?” [Insert vomit sounds here]
So, I had this producer that I had been working with since we were both PAs. We both moved up and kept in touch. He called me often with work, checking my availability, and the jobs got bigger and bigger. The higher the budgets got, the harder it was for him to get me on the shoot. He would always recommend me because he knew I would get the job done, and everyone would pat him on the back for the hire. I would get these messages, “Try to hold the day, but they are hesitant to hire a female AD. Sorry. I’ll let you know.” For some reason I think if I was a dude, he wouldn’t have had to fight so hard.
One more story for shits and giggles, and to prove it’s not just the men: I was hired for a very large, upcoming project with a very big company. The producers hired me, one of whom I had worked with before and had really liked me, and the others trusted her judgment. It was unusual that I hadn’t met the director, but sometimes, they’re just busy and have to trust their team. I went in for my meeting to sign my paperwork, and since the director was prepping in the same office, I asked that we grab a quick coffee afterwards, to get to know each other. It’s REALLY important that the director and AD have good communication and understand each other. Anyway, back to the kicker. So, I’m sitting with the producers and one says, “I know it’s crazy you haven’t met the director quite yet but we know he will love you. I mean look at you, you’re the hottest AD we have ever seen.” [Let’s insert some more vomit here] Seriously? I felt terrible. I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing, that I wasn’t talented at all. I was an easy hire, because I was good looking. Awesome. Thanks.
I quickly learned that I had to be conscious of my age, gender, and looks to get jobs, and more importantly, get respect. The way I dressed was a big one. I am sure a lot of women in the business are conscious of this. I was always in baggy shirts, layers, and absolutely nothing low-cut. I rarely wore shorts unless I felt I would die from a heat stroke otherwise. In the two years I worked as an AD, I don’t think I wore mascara once. I really couldn’t ever be myself; I was on eggshells mostly, especially with a new crew. I often was the only female on set, or one of few. It’s too bad the only problem wasn’t the lack of people I could ask for a tampon.
Now, I have made a switch in my career. Directing is my focus. I wanted more creativity, and my imagination needed to be set free.
And yes, an article about directing and being a chick is in my future.