Gofers: On the Front Lines of Film and Television

by Daniel Scarpati

Ever hear of an entry-level job where the office moves daily, co-workers change constantly and responsibilities could range from unclogging a backed-up dressing room toilet to cueing the controlled explosion of a spaceship in the middle of a busy city park? Well it's a real job, the title of which is production assistant (PA for short, a.k.a. "gofer").

This is the first position that many people have in the film and television production industry. After working hundreds of overtime hours as a PA, Daniel Scarpati learned that success in showbiz is all about who you don't know! Come behind the scenes of countless sets to hear about the plentiful, sometimes painful tasks PAs are asked to do so the show can go on.

"Gofers" places the entry-level role and hectic lifestyle of a PA in the spotlight. It explains, step-by-step, how Daniel went from making home movies in his backyard and having zero connections to working on dozens of primetime network series, major studio movies and big-budget commercials. Through stories from time spent with renowned cast and crew, Daniel explains how to forge your own path in the industry.

This isn't just another textbook. The street smarts, people skills and practical life lessons can translate to any industry.

Genres: Film

236 pages, Paperback

Published October 25, 2020

About the author

Daniel Scarpati was born and raised in Queens, NY. Alongside neighborhood friends, he performed in and directed dozens of short films out of his own backyard.

After working countless overtime hours as a film/TV production assistant, Daniel now works as a video producer, director, and editor through his production company, Passing Planes Productions LLC. This name is a nod to the noisy jets from JFK International Airport that passed by above his backyard "studio."

Daniel has a B.A. in Film Production and TV/Radio from CUNY Macaulay Honors College at Brooklyn College, is developing his first feature film and (when not on set) is a metal detectorist in search of lost treasure. You can keep up-to-date with him online at www.passingplanes.com.

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic, personal yet also very educational read for those who'd like an indepth, technical look at the TV/film industry and being on set, with a great dash of humour and heart.

[James Bunyan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The publisher provided me an advance copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Daniel Scarpati has written the definitive “how to” book for those considering employment in the film and tv industry. His enthusiasm for film comes through on every page. His anecdotes are purposeful making his point about the joy and difficulty of working as a jack of all trades.

His story about the late Brian Dennehy is both touching and instructive. The treatment of performers is essential for any successful project. He covers all the bases including managing your income in a gig economy.

Gofers is a thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who loves film and television, but is especially valuable as guide to those thinking of entering this exciting world.

[Jerry Krase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel was one of my favorite students from the Brooklyn College, CUNY Macaulay Honors College who has written an entertaining inside look at the trials and tribulations of young people who decide to make a life out of the media world. Perhaps it is more than you want to know about a world few of us will ever enter, but it is well worth the easy read, especially of the fads and foibles of Film and Television sets on location or in studios. I had a great deal of fun reading it, even when it was tough going for him. I look forward to its incarnation as a screenplay!

[Margaret Scarpati]

I bought this book and loved it!
5.0 out of 5 stars Autobiographical book from behind the curtain of current film/TV sets

This book is such fun! Not only does the author have a wonderful writing style, but he crafted a "behind-the-curtain" book that is for both TV/FILM people AS WELL AS casual interest readers. Half is funny film set anecdotes & half is a great and thorough guidebook with terminology, procedures and so much up- to-date content about how to function in a tv/film job (entry level, especially). There are lovely and funny celeb stories, told respectfully, such as one re: Brian Dennehy near the end of his esteemed acting career. Plenty of names and photos to intrigue any reader...This creative, warm and funny book has HEART!

[Juliana Daxland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not just for those in film or aspiring to be in film. It’s for anyone who wants to read about what it’s REALLY like behind the scenes! The author includes everything you need to know about being a PA, including a typical “life in the day of,” and useful tips on everything you can imagine. He includes enough humor and true tales to keep the reader engaged throughout. A+ book!!!

[Robin Kincade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel has so obviously been on a film set, many, many times! His stories reflect what it's really like to work in the business and the funny and strange things that happen on a set. He's funny, smart and really explains why people in the film industry love what they do. If you're interested in working in film, buy this book. You won't regret it.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super good and insightful book! I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to work in the film industry!

[David Kueber · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read from start to finish! Daniel Scarpati is a passionate writer and his fervor for his work is contagious as you find yourself flipping page after page. I definitely would recommend this and his future projects to all!