A paper script getting passed back and forth on the set of film or TV is a dangerous thing in the coronavirus era. In a new proposal to the state of California, producers suggest that’s one thing that will have to go if work is to start up again.
“Whenever possible, use of paper should be minimized. Alternatives such as electronic scripts and electronic sign-in/out should be explored,” the document states. Amid expected ideas about increased distancing between workers, use of masks other personal protective equipment, and sweeping sterilization of commonly touched objects, this is one of the surprising common-sense changes that will have to be implemented to ensure the show can go on.
The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers submitted the 22-page “white paper” proposal to the state of California on Monday, hoping to get the go-ahead to resume work within this massive sector of the economy that was abruptly halted in March as the COVID-19 virus swept the world.
The AMPTP normally works on behalf of major media companies to negotiate contracts with Hollywood’s talent guilds and unions, but in this case those often opposing sides worked together to devise a plan for getting cameras rolling again.
Concerns about the virus lingering on paper and being transmitted that way will finally do away with the traditional paper script, but there are other unexpected suggestions in the document. Crew lists, production reports and call sheets—also typically paper objects passed around freely—will also have to go electronic.
The changes have a grim quality to them, suggesting the austerity of life in the pandemic. “Physical contact should be avoided, including shaking hands, ‘high fives,’ fist or elbow bumps, or hugging,” the document says.
As Vanity Fair reported last week, crews are being divided into modular workforces—construction crews will work, then leave. Then lighting technicians will arrive, then leave. Actors and camera crews will do their jobs, and never cross paths the other teams. “Stagger cast and crew call and wrap times to limit the number of individuals arriving to and departing from work simultaneously,” the white paper says.
Even preproduction and development is addressed. “Whenever possible, move to virtual writers’ rooms,” the guidelines state. “When virtual writers’ rooms are not possible, maintain 6 feet of distance, use face coverings, and perform hand hygiene before and after the meeting.” Again, it notes: “Minimize use of paper.”
Shows should also no longer be filmed before a live studio audience. Boom times for laugh tracks, apparently. “At this time, the use of live audiences is discouraged. On a case-by-case basis, live audiences may be used as long as audience members: Wear face coverings at all times, maintain 6 feet of physical distance, including while waiting in line and sitting in a studio, and undergo symptom screening on entry.”
The document doesn’t make specific suggestions for close-contact issues like love scenes and stage fighting, but it does propose directors use creative options to keep people separated. “Consider measures to minimize scenes with close contact between performers, such as amending scripts or use of digital effects,” it states.
Filmmaking won’t be the same. But then, it seems like nothing will be.
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