Filmmaking / Directing : What it's like to be a Television Director by Peter D. Marshall

In Television, the Director is very much like a Guest Star, coming in to execute their vision for the episode before moving on to their next project. Directors are often hired for specific episodes, requiring them to rapidly understand the show’s tone, characters, and existing visual style.

The Director works for the Producer (or Show Runner), collaborating closely to bring the producer's vision to life while injecting their own creative flair. It’s the Producer who has the final say on casting, wardrobe, locations, and other crucial elements that shape the show's overall look and feel.

TV Directors work under tight schedules, with limited time for preparation and shooting and often face pressure to deliver episodes on time and within budget, balancing creative aspirations with practical constraints. TV Directors must also collaborate closely with the show's writers to ensure that the directorial vision works with the script.

In TV, the Director of Photography can override the director if the lighting and style of the show do not match the production standards or the overall visual aesthetic established for the series. In TV, the 1st AD also has significant authority and can instruct the director to cut shots if deemed necessary for the production's efficiency and pacing.

They often rely on the experience of department heads and the crew, who know the show's rhythm and look inside and out. TV Directors bring their best to each episode, leaving a mark even within the constraints of a fast-moving production.

TV Directors get to do a "director's cut" but the final cut is done by the producers to meet the network's ongoing standards and expectations, ensuring consistency with the show's overall direction.

Despite the challenges, many TV Directors find the fast-paced, collaborative nature of television production exhilarating and rewarding. Directing TV offers the thrill of working on high-stakes projects and the satisfaction of seeing their work broadcast to a wide audience.

Quotes from 5 Top Television Directors

Vince Gilligan (Breaking Bad): "Directing for TV means you’re always thinking on your feet. You have to be prepared for anything and be able to adapt quickly. It's a fast-paced environment where creative solutions are essential. Every day brings new challenges that test your ingenuity and resilience."

Lesli Linka Glatter (Homeland): "I believe in thorough preparation. During pre-production, I conduct extensive rehearsals with the actors, scout locations meticulously, and storyboard every scene. This detailed planning allows for flexibility on set and helps address any potential issues before they arise.”

David Nutter (Game of Thrones): "Being a television director is about balancing the creative and technical aspects while keeping the cast and crew motivated and focused. Preparation is key, and I spend a significant amount of time working with the writers and actors to ensure we are all on the same page before shooting begins.”

Michelle MacLaren (Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones): "Pre-production is where the foundation of the project is laid. I delve into the script, break down each scene, and work closely with the production team to design the shots and blocking. It's all about creating a clear vision that everyone can follow.”

Reed Morano (The Handmaid's Tale): "For me, pre-production is an intense period of collaboration. I work with the cinematographer, production designer, and costume designer to develop the visual language of the show. It's essential to establish a cohesive style and tone that will carry through the series."

NEXT ARTICLE: The Director's "Top Three” Creative Team