How to Create an Inclusive Set
By Jack Lee, Published on February 21, 2023
As our industry evolves to showcase Black talent on-screen, we’ve seen a range in the quality of the execution of their screentime. While working on a production, not seeing color can create a series of events that leads work to show up in an inauthentic way. Representation is best received with care, intention, and thought. Our [insert title here] shares his experience and how he has implemented equitable change at Circus Maximus so that our talent, crew, staff, and work are regarded with both positive intention and show a positive impact. - Ashley Richardson-George, Circus Maximus Partner & Chief Content Officer
It’s 8:00 a.m. the day of load-in, and you’re an hour away from your first all call on-set. You stroll past some HMUA grazing on bagels, tinkering camera ops, and a flurry of diligent gaffers. No one bothers to introduce themselves, but you smile and nod, casually making internal notes. You see your coffee order on a table immaculately laden with crafty.
You grab your red eye with oat milk and take a long sip. (It’s delicious!)
You notice the director, cinematographer, and the DIT have arrived on the scene and you make your way towards them, as you have a few outstanding questions about the shooting schedule. You catch the director’s eye and they make a beeline toward you. Before you can extend your hand and say, “Hi, I’m the producer on-set. I’m pleased to meet you,” you’re met with the following:
“Great! You’re here. The camera dept. needs help with load-in. Grab that case and bring it in, would you? We also need coffee — can you go on a coffee run?”
Hi - I’m Brandon Jack Lee, a creative producer at Circus Maximus. Today, I’m hoping to give you a few quick tips on how to create inclusive sets. I will mostly be approaching this from a Black, queer producer’s mindset, but many of these takes could apply to many different roles and backgrounds!
Assume nothing and question everything!
Take the example above as a warning and assume nothing when it comes to physical production and the people on set. Little things, like introducing yourself to everyone during load-in or meal breaks, can make a world of difference. Ask about your crew’s roles/pronouns and see how they’d like to be addressed. Ask if your models of color have special needs to get the desired look you crave for hair and nails. Be sure to ask the right questions and don’t be afraid to check over the little details!
Don’t be afraid to stir the pot (for the right reasons)
In the words of the late great Congressman John Lewis, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble.” You may notice that many of the male-identifying folks on set are trashing the toilet seat and not lifting it up when they should. Call it out! You think your studio or agency isn’t considering diverse options for cast and crew. Say something! Nothing will change until you open your mouth to make it happen, and the folks who feel silenced in these situations are usually thankful for it in the long run.
“Do nothing without intention.” — Solange
In a production, it’s easy to suffer from tunnel vision in the process of getting things done and losing yourself in the work. If you’re in a position of leadership during physical production, it’s important to remember the audiences who will be interacting with the work, as well as “the why.” If you’re working on an editorial with Black or brown models, keep in mind the audience that will consume it and how light, makeup, and various props will affect the texture of melanated skin. If you’re creating work set to launch in various global regions, like East Asia, South Asia, or Latin America, know the cultural differences for each and ensure that you have the proper models, props, wardrobe, etc. to accommodate everyone.
Actively listen and protect your people
Carrying on from the last tip, when in doubt, listen to your people. You don’t know everything and that’s okay — if you’ve done your job in hiring a diverse, knowledgeable cast and crew, you don’t have to! Lean on their understanding and allow them to lead you when you’re lost (always in a way that’s tactful and doesn’t put anyone on the spot). If a cast member mentions there’s a better way to say a line in their native tongue, listen and adapt.
Remember everyone has value
At the end of the day, the set wouldn’t exist without the people who make it up. In everything you do, show gratitude for your cast and crew members on set. My mindset is that producers are service leaders — you serve at the pleasure of your crew. Be grateful for the work you all are doing and accomplishing, and thank your production assistants, especially after they’ve brought you food or crafty!
People will feel uncomfortable, but that’s okay. Nothing great has ever happened from people staying in their comfort zones, and as Black creatives, it’s imperative that we keep up our spirit of rebellion and accountability to ensure that the next generation doesn’t have to be in the same position we were.
