Directors and Assistant Directors

When asked what he credits his success to, he says, "Faith in God. I'm

a pretty average person. My vertical relationship with God is the most

important thing . . . God, family, and work; I never let those three things

get out of proportion."

Job Overview

The action unit director is charged with directing the action sequences

of a film. Following discussion with the director to gain a clear under-

standing of what he wants to achieve, the action unit director works

closely with the stunt coordinator to safely choreograph the stunt. The

action unit director then guides the performers and cinematographer

through capturing the sequence on film.

For instance, in the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, Vic

Armstrong directed four major sequences, including the opening scene

with the speedboat, and a ski sequence with flying parachutes. In

Charlie's Angels, he directed the helicopter scenes, a racetrack sequence,

and all of the fights.

"We go out and shoot quite difficult stuff. It's a whole different tech-

nology of telling a story through action, keeping it interesting, and not

getting repetitious. Also, putting your main artists into it safely." In

Armstrong's case, he often serves as both stunt coordinator and action

unit director.

Special Skills

"You have to have a specific ability and then utilize that ability," says

Armstrong. "Don't come into the business as a jack-of-all-trades and

expect somebody to use you."

Advice for Someone Seeking This Job

Action unit directors must have first-hand knowledge of what is

required to safely achieve a stunt. Thus, most are former stunt people and

stunt coordinators. It is also important to have a strong background in

filmmaking. Coming up through the ranks as an assistant director is

another route.

JOB TITLE: ACTION UNIT DIRECTOR OR

SECOND UNIT DIRECTOR

Directors and Assistant Directors - Page 17