Assistant Directors
Experienced 1st and 2nd ADs managing productions across Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and beyond.
The assistant director orchestrates the daily mechanics of a Brazilian production, translating creative plans into executable schedules across the country's extraordinary range of locations. From coordinating shoots at Estúdios Globo's massive complex in Rio to managing logistics in São Paulo's urban sprawl or the Amazon rainforest, the 1st AD is the operational backbone that keeps every department aligned.
NeedAFixer connects you with Brazilian ADs who bring practical expertise in the country's production ecosystem. Our network includes professionals experienced at Estúdios Quanta and BigBox in São Paulo, on location across Bahia and Minas Gerais, and familiar with ANCINE registration requirements, local crew customs, and the logistics of shooting in tropical conditions.
ACT 01
Capabilities
Complete AD Services
From pre-production scheduling through wrap, our assistant directors provide the organizational leadership that keeps productions efficient and on track.
01
1st Assistant Director
- Set management & control
- Shooting schedule execution
- Director collaboration
- Crew coordination
- Safety oversight
Set Leadership
02
2nd Assistant Director
- Call sheet preparation
- Talent coordination
- Background management
- Paperwork & reports
- 1st AD support
Production Support
03
AD Team Services
- 2nd 2nd ADs
- Key set PAs
- Crowd marshals
- Base camp coordination
- Multi-unit support
Complete Teams
04
Pre-Production
- Schedule breakdown
- Day-out-of-days
- Strip board creation
- Location logistics
- Shooting order planning
Prep Excellence
ACT 02
Why Us
Why Choose Our Assistant Directors
01.
Brazilian Production Expertise
Our ADs have credits on international features, Brazilian television, and major commercials. They manage complex shoots across Rio, São Paulo, and remote locations with proven logistics experience.
02.
Studio & Location Knowledge
ADs familiar with Estúdios Globo, Estúdios Quanta, and BigBox in São Paulo. They understand ANCINE registration, RioFilme cash rebate requirements, and coordinate with local film commissions across all major filming regions.
03.
Portuguese-English Bilingual Communication
Fluent Portuguese and English speakers ensuring clear communication between international directors and Brazilian crews. They navigate cultural nuances and local production customs seamlessly.
04.
Tropical & Urban Scheduling
Expert schedule management accounting for Brazil's tropical weather patterns, diverse geography, and city-specific logistics. Our ADs plan around rainy seasons, extreme heat, and the unique challenges of urban shoots in São Paulo and Rio.
ACT 03
FAQ
AD Department Expertise
What does a 1st Assistant Director do?
The 1st AD is responsible for running the set — managing the shooting schedule, coordinating all departments, calling shots, and ensuring the director can focus on creative decisions. In Brazil, this also includes coordinating with local authorities for location permits and managing ANCINE compliance.
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.
Do your ADs speak English?
Yes, all our ADs for international productions are fluent English and Portuguese speakers. Many have worked extensively with American and European productions shooting in Brazil and understand the expectations of international crews.
How do Brazilian labor laws affect production scheduling?
Brazilian labor regulations set specific working hour limits and overtime provisions. Our experienced ADs factor these requirements into every schedule, ensuring compliance with CLT labor law while maintaining production efficiency.
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 professionals with credits on major international features, Brazilian cinema, and high-profile commercials. Many have managed shoots across Rio, São Paulo, Salvador, and remote locations in the Amazon and Pantanal.
Related Services
Related Support Roles
ACT 04 — On Set
Need an AD Team?
Tell us about your production and we'll recommend experienced assistant directors.