Becoming an Assistant Director (AD) in the film industry is a challenging yet rewarding career path. Renowned filmmaker Gururaj Kulkarni, a director with years of experience in the industry, recently shared some valuable advice for those looking to make a mark in the field. His insights provide a roadmap for aspiring ADs to not only succeed but also thrive in a competitive industry.

Here are the three key tips he shared:

1.Understand Your  Objective: Money  or Passion?

One of the first things aspiring Assistant Directors should ask themselves is whether they’re in the industry for the right reasons. Gururaj Kulkarni emphasizes the importance of understanding your own motivation. “Is it the passion for filmmaking and career growth, or is it the money?” he asks.

Gururaj explains that those driven purely by financial gains might not endure the challenges that come with the role of an AD, which often involves long hours, high pressure, and limited recognition in the beginning. However, those who are passionate about the craft of filmmaking—who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the creative process—will find the journey rewarding, no matter the obstacles.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Own Your Role: Don’t Hide Your Experience

A common concern among aspiring ADs is the fear of being labeled as someone who has “only assisted” other directors. Gururaj Kulkarni advises, “Never feel bad to disclose that you were an AD for such and such director. Own your experience.”

Working as an Assistant Director offers invaluable learning opportunities, and every director has their unique style and approach. Rather than feeling insecure about assisting others, use your experience as a badge of honor. It’s a stepping stone to your own filmmaking career, and the knowledge gained from working with seasoned professionals will shape you into a better director in the future.

As Gururaj puts it, “Assisting other directors is part of your journey and your story. The experiences you gain in these roles can’t be taught in classrooms—they are learned through real-world, hands-on work.”

3. Master the Art of Patience and Persistence

In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, an Assistant Director’s role is demanding and filled with constant challenges. Gururaj Kulkarni stresses the importance of patience and persistence for those who wish to grow in the industry. “You must be patient, learn the ropes, and be persistent in your approach,” he says.

Patience is key when learning the intricacies of filmmaking—understanding the rhythm of the set, coordinating with the entire team, and contributing to the director’s vision. Persistence is necessary because the road to becoming a director yourself might take time, but the journey will be worth it as long as you continue learning and pushing forward.

Final Thoughts

Gururaj Kulkarni’s advice for aspiring Assistant Directors is clear: Understand your motivations, be proud of your journey, and stay patient and persistent. The film industry can be tough, but with the right mindset, passion, and hard work, you can build a successful career.

For those ready to take the first step into filmmaking, remember: it’s not just about the destination but the learning and growth that happens along the way.

Warm regards,
Team G9 Communication Media and Entertainment