Assistant Directors
Experienced 1st and 2nd ADs managing productions across Beijing, Shanghai, and Hengdian.
The assistant director is essential for navigating China's complex production landscape, translating creative plans into executable schedules while managing regulatory requirements unique to the Chinese market. From coordinating massive period productions at Hengdian World Studios to managing shoots in Beijing's restricted zones, the 1st AD must combine organizational precision with deep knowledge of local protocols.
NeedAFixer connects you with bilingual ADs who understand China's production ecosystem. Our network includes professionals experienced at Hengdian World Studios, Qingdao Oriental Movie Metropolis, and on location across major Chinese cities, with practical knowledge of China Film Administration requirements, local crew customs, and the logistics of working with Chinese production partners.
Complete AD Services
From pre-production scheduling through wrap, our assistant directors provide the organizational leadership that keeps productions efficient and on track.
1st Assistant Director
- • Set management & control
- • Shooting schedule execution
- • Director collaboration
- • Crew coordination
- • Safety oversight
2nd Assistant Director
- • Call sheet preparation
- • Talent coordination
- • Background management
- • Paperwork & reports
- • 1st AD support
AD Team Services
- • 2nd 2nd ADs
- • Key set PAs
- • Crowd marshals
- • Base camp coordination
- • Multi-unit support
Pre-Production
- • Schedule breakdown
- • Day-out-of-days
- • Strip board creation
- • Location logistics
- • Shooting order planning
Why Choose Our Assistant Directors
Chinese Production Expertise
Our ADs have credits on international co-productions, Chinese blockbusters, and major commercials. They navigate the regulatory landscape of the China Film Administration and local Film Bureaus with practiced efficiency.
Studio & Regulatory Knowledge
ADs familiar with Hengdian World Studios, Qingdao CMM, and Wanda Studios. They understand content review processes, co-production treaty requirements, and coordinate with local Film Bureaus across major production regions.
Mandarin-English Bilingual Communication
Fluent Mandarin and English speakers ensuring clear communication between international directors and Chinese crews. They navigate cultural nuances, hierarchical production structures, and local working customs.
Multi-Region Scheduling
Expert schedule management across China's vast geography. Our ADs plan around regional permitting timelines, seasonal considerations, and the unique logistics of shooting at heritage sites and restricted locations.
AD Department Expertise
What does a 1st Assistant Director do on a Chinese production?
The 1st AD runs the set — managing the shooting schedule, coordinating all departments, and ensuring smooth operations. In China, the 1st AD also liaises with local Film Bureau representatives, manages content compliance requirements, and coordinates between international and Chinese crew members.
What's the difference between 1st and 2nd AD?
The 1st AD runs the set during shooting, while the 2nd AD handles logistics off-set — preparing call sheets, coordinating talent movements, managing background artists, and handling production paperwork. On larger productions, they work as a team with the 2nd supporting the 1st's set management.
How do Chinese production regulations affect scheduling?
Chinese productions require China Film Administration approval and coordination with local Film Bureaus. Our ADs factor in permit processing times, content review requirements, and the need for a Chinese co-production partner when building international production schedules.
Do your ADs speak both Mandarin and English?
Yes, all our ADs for international productions are fluent in both Mandarin and English. This is essential for Chinese co-productions where communication between international directors and local crews must be precise and immediate.
Can you provide AD teams for multi-unit productions?
Yes, we staff complete AD departments including 1st ADs, 2nd ADs, 2nd 2nd ADs, and additional support for main unit, second unit, and splinter units. We coordinate to ensure consistent communication across all units.
What experience do your ADs have?
Our AD roster includes bilingual professionals with credits on international co-productions, Chinese features, and commercials shot across Beijing, Shanghai, and at major studio complexes including Hengdian and Qingdao.
Need an AD Team?
Tell us about your production and we'll recommend experienced assistant directors.