Also called: Action Director, 2nd Unit Director
Directs a separate crew that films big action sequences, stunts, chases, and establishing shots.
A second unit director might spend weeks on a highway shutdown filming a car chase while the main director films dialogue scenes elsewhere. Many are former stunt coordinators.
Approximate; DGA rates on major action films; work is project-based.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
No formal education, about 0 years after high school. Usually a veteran stunt coordinator or camera operator; DGA membership.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Film Production, Kinesiology.
Growing faster than average (about 5% over 10 years). Tracks producer/director growth.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI previs and some CG action may trim second-unit days; directing big real stunts and chases with crews stays human.
Classes: Film/video production CTE, Physical education, Physics, Theater.
Official data: O*NET occupation 27-2012.
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