A greensman's responsibilities on a movie set encompass the creation and maintenance of the natural environment, managing all aspects of plant life, and ensuring the set's landscapes are visually pleasing and in line with the film's creative vision.
In the dynamic world of cinema, there are numerous roles that contribute to the creation of a captivating film. One such role is that of a greensman, a vital yet often overlooked figure behind the scenes.
A greensman's job involves a deep understanding of storytelling and an ability to bring the director's vision to life, but it also requires a comprehensive knowledge of filmmaking techniques and hands-on experience in various roles within the film industry.
The greensman's primary responsibility lies in creating and maintaining the natural environments seen on set, particularly on soundstages. This often involves physical labour such as hauling trees, digging holes, and watering plants, transforming a concrete floor into a lush forest or a vibrant garden.
In pre-production, the greensman conducts thorough research to determine the necessary vegetation for each scene. Every tree, bush, flower, and vine seen in movies (unless filmed outside) is rented, and it falls upon the greensman to ensure their rental, planting, arrangement, and maintenance.
Safety is another crucial aspect of a greensman's role, particularly at outdoor shoots. The greensman ensures the set is safe to prevent injuries to talent or crew. However, on large-scale productions, the role of a safety coordinator may also be responsible for this.
The greensman works closely with the production designer, set decorator, and special effects team to create the perfect setting for each scene. They are often one of the first to arrive on set in the morning to set up the greenery, ensuring a smooth and efficient filming process.
While a college degree is not necessary for a career as a greensman, studying horticulture, botany, or landscape design can be beneficial. For insights into various roles in the film industry, Brian Dzyak's book "What I Really Want to Do On Set in Hollywood" (Random House, 2010) is a valuable resource.
For more information about the roles and responsibilities of a greensman, resources such as CraftandTech.org (Oct. 26, 2012) and InsideJobs.com provide comprehensive guides.
In the case of the film 'Tenet', the greensman responsible for the meticulous creation of the film's environments was Victor Valtchev. His work, like that of many greensmen, plays a vital role in shaping the visual narrative of the film, making the fantastical feel real.
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