A production designer heads one of the two largest departments on a production. How do they balance both the creative and managerial aspects of their job? Who are the key people they collaborate with and delegate to? How do they maximize production value even when working with a low budget? On this episode, our guest Rusty Smith draws from his experiences on hit movies like Elf, Meet the Parents, Austin Powers, and the acclaimed horror/thriller Get Out. He explains what to prioritize when location scouting, key traits to look for when hiring crew, and how to collaborate well with producers and directors. He also highlights the differences between the designer and the art director, shares best practices for managing his budget well, and tells story after story about adapting and rolling with the punches to make the best movie possible. 

Show notes from this episode:

-BONUS SEGMENT: The History of the Title "Production Designer" - Rusty Smith: www.callsheetshow.com/bonus

-Rusty Smith on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0809840/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

-Rusty's portfolio: rustysmith.biz

-Send us questions and comments for future episodes: callsheetpodcast@gmail.com

-Follow us on social: @callsheetshow

-Mel Bourne on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0100080/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr8

-Stephen Hendrickson on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0376807/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2

-Bill Groom on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0343144/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

www.callsheetshow.com

12. The Power of Adapting - Rusty Smith, Production Designer

A podcast by, for, and about below-the-line filmmakers. Call Sheet celebrates the rank and file crew in every department — production, locations, camera, G&E, sound, art, stunts, you name it. In every episode, we talk with a guest about a hands-on topic, straight from their work on the front lines in features, TV, commercials, docs, or digital media.

Whether you're a hungry up-and-comer or a seasoned veteran who just loves production, Call Sheet will give you the insights, stories, and inspiration you need to hone your craft and maximize your contribution. If you work anywhere in physical production, this show's for you.

Call Sheet is co-hosted by line producers Bryce Cyrier & Kiku Terasaki.

www.callsheetshow.com

12. The Power of Adapting - Rusty Smith, Production Designer

Call Sheet Podcast