After years of perseverance, learning, and small roles in student films and internships, Jaswinder’s big break in the film industry came when he was offered the position of Assistant Director (AD) on a major feature film. It was a moment he had been working toward since his early days in film school, and now, all his hard work and experiences had led to this crucial point in his career.
Jaswinder had been working on a smaller independent film project as an intern when the director of the feature film, impressed by his dedication, invited him to join his team as the Assistant Director. It was a significant opportunity—one that would require him to work closely with the director, help coordinate the crew, and ensure that every detail on set ran smoothly. Being an AD was a huge responsibility, as they were the glue that kept everything together, from managing the filming schedule to overseeing the logistics of the set.
The first day on set as an AD was both thrilling and intimidating. Jaswinder was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the production. The set was massive, with a large crew and a huge cast. There were multiple departments to coordinate, from costume and makeup to lighting and sound. But despite the pressure, Jaswinder quickly realized that the skills he had learned in film school—time management, organization, and communication—would serve him well in this new role.
One of his first tasks was to ensure that the actors were ready for their scenes at the right time. Jaswinder had to keep track of everything: when each actor needed to be on set, when rehearsals would take place, and when the cameras were set to roll. He learned quickly that being an AD wasn’t just about giving instructions—it was about being a mediator, ensuring that everyone on set was on the same page and that everything ran efficiently.
Working closely with the director, Jaswinder began to understand the nuances of film direction. He saw how the director communicated with the actors, guiding their performances to achieve the emotional depth and authenticity required for each scene. Jaswinder was involved in discussions about the creative vision of the film and how each shot should be framed. The director’s trust in him grew, as he consistently demonstrated his commitment to bringing the director’s vision to life while keeping things on track logistically.
Throughout the shoot, Jaswinder faced numerous challenges. From dealing with last-minute changes to the shooting schedule to managing a crew that had been working long hours, he had to be adaptable and calm under pressure. There were moments when things didn’t go according to plan—weather delays, technical difficulties, and issues with the cast. But each time, Jaswinder found a solution, whether it was rearranging the schedule or coming up with creative ways to work around the problem.
The experience was an invaluable learning process. As an Assistant Director, Jaswinder gained a firsthand understanding of the many moving parts that go into making a film. He learned how to manage a team, solve problems on the spot, and make decisions that would keep the production on track. He also learned the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere on set, as morale was crucial to keeping the crew motivated during long and exhausting shooting days.
Jaswinder’s efforts did not go unnoticed. The director praised him for his hard work, attention to detail, and ability to handle stress. Over the course of the production, Jaswinder proved himself to be an invaluable part of the team, gaining the respect of his peers and mentors alike. His breakthrough as an Assistant Director was a testament to his skills and dedication, but it was also a reminder of how far he had come from his humble beginnings in Cheema Khurd.
When the film was finally released, it was met with critical acclaim. Jaswinder’s name appeared in the credits as Assistant Director, marking his first major credit in a feature film. It was a proud moment for him, but it was just the beginning. He knew that there would be more challenges ahead, but this breakthrough role had opened doors for him. He now had the experience and confidence to take on larger projects and make his mark in the industry.
