In the fast-paced world of film and media production, a fixer is your essential link to local resources. They help you navigate unfamiliar terrain and tackle logistical challenges. But while a “good” fixer will get the job done, a “great” fixer can truly transform your entire production experience. Understanding this key difference is vital for any team filming abroad.

What Makes a Good Fixer?

A good fixer is a reliable backbone for your production. They are proficient in handling the practicalities and ensuring smooth operations. You can count on them to:

• Secure permits: They know the local bureaucracy and can get the necessary permissions for your shoot.
• Arrange transportation: From getting your crew to remote locations to managing equipment movement, they handle logistics.
• Bridge communication: They facilitate basic interactions between your team and local contacts, ensuring messages are understood.
• Solve immediate problems: When an issue arises, they’re on hand to find a quick solution and keep the production moving.

Essentially, a good production fixer ensures your project stays on track and addresses visible challenges efficiently.

What Makes a Great Fixer?

A great fixer goes beyond just problem-solving; they are proactive visionaries who enhance every aspect of your shoot. Their strengths lie in foresight and deep cultural immersion:

• Anticipate issues: They can foresee potential problems due to cultural differences, local customs, or specific regional nuances, often before they even arise.
• Deep local understanding: A great fixer has an intimate knowledge of the area, its people, and its unspoken rules. This helps avoid cultural missteps and builds trust.
• Exceptional linguistic support: They don’t just translate words; they interpret meaning, tone, and cultural context when dealing with local stakeholders, authorities, or interview subjects.
• Skilled negotiation: With their deep understanding and strong local connections, they can negotiate more effectively on your behalf, reducing costs and preventing disruptions.
• Enhance the experience: Beyond logistics, a great fixer contributes to the quality of your storytelling by identifying unique opportunities, guiding you to authentic locations, and connecting you with compelling local voices.

A great local fixer doesn’t just manage the shoot; they elevate it, providing invaluable insights and ensuring a richer, more authentic final product.

The Bottom Line

While a good film fixer will complete the tasks, a great one will significantly enhance your team’s experience and the overall quality of your production. When seeking fixer services for your next project, especially when filming internationally, prioritize these deeper qualities for a truly seamless and successful shooting experience.

Need help finding a great fixer for your next project? Just contact us to know more!