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Safe Sets: Dying to work in the film industry

A doctor investigates hazardous working conditions in Hollywood, and discovers untold stories of enormous personal sacrifice and life-threatening risks for those working in an industry that brings us the movies and TV shows we cherish.

  • Paul Heinzelmann
    Director
  • Jonathan Schwartz
    Director
    Faith in the Big House
  • Azadeh Nikzadeh
    Producer
    The Girl Sitting Here
  • Kerri Coombs
    Producer
    Katiba Banat: Sisters in Arms
  • Jonathan Schwartz
    Producer
    Faith in the Big House
  • Richard Levien
    Producer
    Collisions
  • Jon Hamm
    Key Cast
    "self"
    Mad Men
  • John Malkovich
    Key Cast
    "self"
    In The Line Of Fire
  • Liza Huget
    Key Cast
    "self"
    Stargate
  • Amy Greene
    Key Cast
    "self"
    The Holdovers
  • John Lindley
    Key Cast
    "self"
    Pleasantville
  • Isis Mussenden
    Key Cast
    "self"
    The Chronicles of Narnia
  • Theresa Tova
    Key Cast
    "self"
    Akilla's Escape
  • Doreen Manuel
    Key Cast
    "self"
    Unceded Chiefs
  • Richard Levien
    Writer
    Collisions
  • Paul Heinzelmann
    Writer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 25 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    October 7, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, Canada, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • New Hampshire Film Festival
    Portsmouth
    United States
    October 19, 2024
    World Premiere
    AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD
  • Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival
    Fort Lauderdale
    United States
    November 12, 2024
    Florida Premiere
  • Los Angeles International Film Festival
    Los Angeles
    United States
    November 17, 2024
    California Premiere
    BEST DOCUMENTARY
  • Women in Film and Video New England
    Boston
    United States
    February 22, 2025
    post festival screening (approximate date)
Director Biography - Paul Heinzelmann, Jonathan Schwartz

Primary Care doctor trained in Public health was pulled into the world of film sets when tax incentives brought film work to Massachusetts. His observations as an outsider reveal a workplace in need of reform.

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Director Statement

As a medical doctor, I initially found myself on film sets through an unexpected twist of fate. What struck me immediately was the prevalent hazards that often lay concealed beneath the glamor of the industry, only surfacing tragically, as in the case of the unfortunate events on the set of Rust. This experience ignited a fire within me, a determination to venture deeper into the heart of the film and television industry's safety concerns. I embarked on a journey of research, interviews, and advocacy, driven by a compelling need to shine a light on the inherent dangers faced by cast and crew members.

In crafting "SAFE SETS," our team meticulously designed an investigative and immersive style that draws audiences into the very core of the industry's hazards. We aim to transport viewers, enabling them to witness the challenges faced by industry professionals firsthand. Through the potent tools of storytelling, expert interviews, and visually captivating imagery, we have fashioned an atmosphere that both intrigues and compels.

Our documentary strikes a delicate balance, reflecting our sincere concern for the well-being of those who toil behind the scenes while steadfastly addressing systemic issues that have long been veiled in silence. With our engaging narrative and thought-provoking approach, our ultimate aspiration is to captivate audiences, elevate awareness, and kindle the flames of change.

Through "SAFE SETS," we aim to amplify the voices of those working in the film industry, catalyze a broader conversation, and inspire meaningful reforms.. It is my fervent belief that this documentary has the potential to spark the transformation that is so urgently needed.

Warmly,
Paul Heinzelmann, MD
Director, SAFE SETS: Dying to Work in the Film Industry