Is there any way that one can get on a film set, just to watch the director work and learn? Is it difficult to become a production assistant on a Hollywood film? I mean say you tell them that you will work for nothing (and I mean no money at all) and you'll do whatever they need---get coffee, pick up trash, go pick this up, that up etc..
There are very few opportunities for people to just get on a set to watch and learn. The best way to find out is by contacting the directors agent and asking.
Getting work as a PA is another matter. By "Hollywood" I assume you're asking about films made by a major studio. "Hollywood" films are all union shoots - meaning that every person on the set is a member of one of the craft unions that has an agreement with the studio. Production Assistants are covered by various departments. Art Department and Camera Department for example. General PA's are often non-union people hired by the producer, line producer or UPM.
You cannot work for free on studio films. It's California law. And it can be very difficult to get a job on a Hollywood film. Even with a PA it's who you know.
However, getting a PA job on an independent movie for no pay is easy. Low budget moviemakers like me are always looking for free labor. Check the non-paid listings on mandy or craigslist.
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
