Cinematographer
Der Last Man sorgt dafür, dass mein Equipment sicher ist, nachdem ich gegangen bin. Wichtig ist eine klare Übergabe – was muss besonders geschützt werden.
The designated crew member responsible for the final walk-through and securing of a film set or location at the end of each shooting day – ensures all equipment is stored, lights are off, doors are locked, and the location is left in proper condition.
What is the Last Man?
The Last Man is the designated crew member who remains on set last and is responsible for the final securing of the location. This position ensures that all equipment is stowed, doors are locked, and the location is left in proper order.
Basic Principles
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Final Securing |
| Timing | After everyone else |
| Responsibility | Set/Location |
| Reporting | To Location Manager |
Tasks
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Walkthrough | Check all areas |
| Equipment | Securely stowed |
| Lights | All off |
| Doors | Locked |
Checklist
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | Shut down/secure |
| Windows | Closed |
| Heating/AC | Regulated |
| Alarm Systems | Activated |
Typical Staffing
| Person | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Location PA | Very frequent |
| Set PA | Frequent |
| Location Manager | On important sets |
| Security | On large productions |
Communication
| With Whom | About What |
|---|---|
| Location Manager | Specifics |
| 1st AD | Wrap time |
| Security | Handover |
| Crew Heads | Equipment status |
Equipment Responsibility
| Department | Securing |
|---|---|
| Camera | Vault/Lock-up |
| Grip/Electric | Truck/Container |
| Props | Secure area |
| Costume/Makeup | Trailer/Room |
Location Specifics
| Location Type | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Studio | Alarm system |
| Practical Location | Owner contact |
| Exterior Shoot | Barricades |
| Night Shoot | Security handover |
Documentation
| Element | Record |
|---|---|
| Time | When completed |
| Status | All secured |
| Issues | If any occurred |
| Contact | Availability |
Emergency Preparedness
| Situation | Protocol |
|---|---|
| Fire | Know evacuation plan |
| Burglary | Contact security |
| Accident | First aid/Emergency call |
| Equipment Problem | Call Department Head |
Key Management
| Aspect | Handling |
|---|---|
| Receipt | From Location Manager |
| Return | To designated person |
| Copies | Documented |
| Loss | Report immediately |
Communication Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Walkie | Set communication |
| Phone | Emergency contacts |
| List | Important numbers |
| Log | Documentation |
Wrap Process
| Phase | Activity |
|---|---|
| Crew Wrap | Departments clear out |
| Verification | Last Man checks |
| Securing | Lock everything up |
| Confirmation | Report to production |
Challenges
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgotten Items | Thorough walkthrough |
| Open Areas | Use checklist |
| Time Pressure | Work systematically |
| Fatigue | Maintain alertness |
Qualities
| Attribute | Importance |
|---|---|
| Reliability | Essential |
| Thoroughness | Don't miss anything |
| Responsibility | Take seriously |
| Communication | Report clearly |
Representation
| Situation | Solution |
|---|---|
| Illness | Designate backup |
| Leaving Early | Handover |
| Emergency | Replacement person |
| Documentation | Always up-to-date |
Budget Aspects
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overtime | Last person |
| Security | If necessary |
| Transport | Home |
| Responsibility | Potentially expensive |
Legal Aspects
| Area | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Check coverage |
| Liability | For damages |
| Working Hours | Document |
| Work Safety | Working alone |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use checklist | Don't forget anything |
| Schedule time | Be thorough |
| Communicate | Report status |
| Document | For proof |
Today
The position of the Last Man is an often underestimated but critically important role in film production. Professional securing prevents theft, damage, and location issues. A responsible Last Man provides security for the entire production and a good start to the next shooting day.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Als Regisseur verlasse ich das Set oft früher. Zu wissen, dass ein verantwortungsvoller Last Man alles sichert, gibt mir Ruhe.
Producer
Last Man ist eine kritische Funktion. Sicherheitsvorfälle oder Location-Probleme über Nacht können Drehtage kosten. Die richtige Person für diesen Job ist Gold wert.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Last Man / Schließperson / Letzter am Set"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?