Second Assistant Directors
Experienced 2nd ADs keeping your Canadian production on schedule from Toronto to Vancouver.
The 2nd Assistant Director on a Canadian production manages call sheets, coordinates background artists, and handles the logistical details that keep the 1st AD focused on the shooting floor. In Canada, 2nd ADs must navigate DGC (Directors Guild of Canada) protocols and IATSE agreements for crew hours, coordinate talent movements across major production hubs, and manage the specific administrative requirements of productions accessing federal CPTC or provincial tax credits.
Through NeedAFixer, we connect you with 2nd ADs who bring disciplined organisation and clear communication to every production day. Our network includes professionals experienced in managing large-cast features at Pinewood Toronto, fast-paced episodic schedules at Vancouver Film Studios, bilingual productions at MELS Studios in Montreal, and complex multi-location shoots spanning Canada's diverse geography.
ACT 01
Capabilities
Complete 2nd AD Services
From call sheets to cast coordination, our 2nd ADs handle the essential logistics that support efficient production.
01
Call Sheets
- Daily call sheet creation
- Schedule distribution
- Crew notification
- Cast coordination
- Update management
Communication Hub
02
Talent Management
- Cast scheduling
- Makeup & wardrobe calls
- Transport coordination
- Holding management
- Actor liaison
Cast Coordination
03
Background Artists
- Extras coordination
- Check-in management
- Wardrobe flow
- Holding supervision
- Voucher processing
Crowd Control
04
Production Reports
- Daily reports
- Time tracking
- Scene status
- Cast & crew logs
- Production paperwork
Documentation
ACT 02
Why Us
Why Choose Our Second Assistant Directors
01.
Union-Ready Communication
Clear, accurate call sheets compliant with DGC and IATSE standards. Our 2nd ADs ensure every department knows where to be and when, with proper turnaround and meal penalty tracking.
02.
Talent Coordination
Expert management of cast movements across Canadian productions, from studio pickups to remote location transfers. Coordination with ACTRA and SAG-AFTRA for cross-border US-Canada productions.
03.
Background Expertise
Experienced handling of large crowd scenes with coordination through Canadian background performer agencies. Efficient check-in, wardrobe flow, and ACTRA background performer agreement compliance.
04.
Tax Credit Documentation
Meticulous paperwork and reporting aligned with DGC/IATSE collective agreements and provincial tax credit documentation requirements. Accurate crew hour tracking and Canadian content compliance records.
ACT 03
FAQ
2nd AD Expertise
What does a 2nd AD do?
The 2nd AD handles logistics and paperwork that support the 1st AD's set management. This includes creating call sheets, coordinating talent movements, managing background artists, completing production reports, and handling the administrative side of daily production.
How does the 2nd AD work with the 1st AD?
The 2nd AD works off-set to keep the 1st AD informed and supported. They manage cast and background ready for set, handle paperwork the 1st AD needs, and ensure logistical coordination that allows the 1st AD to focus on running the shooting floor.
What information goes on a call sheet?
Call sheets include shooting schedule, cast calls, crew calls, location addresses, parking information, department notes, weather forecasts, safety information, and any special instructions. In Canada, call sheets also include winter weather advisories, turnaround compliance notes, and DGC/IATSE notification requirements.
Can you handle large background calls?
Yes, our 2nd ADs are experienced with large crowd scenes across Canadian productions — from downtown Toronto street scenes to period sequences at heritage locations. They coordinate with local background agencies and manage efficient check-in and ACTRA voucher processing.
What production reports do 2nd ADs complete?
2nd ADs complete daily production reports documenting scenes shot, cast work times, background numbers, hours worked, and any incidents. These reports are essential for production tracking, accounting, and provincial tax credit qualification documentation.
Do your 2nd ADs speak English?
Yes, all our Canadian 2nd ADs are fluent English speakers. For Quebec productions, we provide bilingual English-French 2nd ADs who communicate seamlessly with both international crews and local francophone departments and background artists.
Related Services
Related Support Roles
ACT 04 — On Set
Need a 2nd AD?
Tell us about your production requirements and we'll connect you with experienced 2nd ADs.