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.
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Paul HeinzelmannDirector
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Jonathan SchwartzDirectorFaith in the Big House
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Azadeh NikzadehProducerThe Girl Sitting Here
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Kerri CoombsProducerKatiba Banat: Sisters in Arms
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Jonathan SchwartzProducerFaith in the Big House
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Richard LevienProducerCollisions
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Jon HammKey Cast"self"Mad Men
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John MalkovichKey Cast"self"In The Line Of Fire
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Liza HugetKey Cast"self"Stargate
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Amy GreeneKey Cast"self"The Holdovers
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John LindleyKey Cast"self"Pleasantville
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Isis MussendenKey Cast"self"The Chronicles of Narnia
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Theresa TovaKey Cast"self"Akilla's Escape
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Doreen ManuelKey Cast"self"Unceded Chiefs
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Richard LevienWriterCollisions
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Paul HeinzelmannWriter
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Project Type:Documentary, Feature
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Runtime:1 hour 25 minutes
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Completion Date:October 7, 2024
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Country of Origin:United States, United States
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Country of Filming:United States, Canada, United States
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:Digital
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:Yes
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Student Project:No
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New Hampshire Film FestivalPortsmouth
United States
October 19, 2024
World Premiere
AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD -
Fort Lauderdale International Film FestivalFort Lauderdale
United States
November 12, 2024
Florida Premiere -
Los Angeles International Film FestivalLos Angeles
United States
November 17, 2024
California Premiere
BEST DOCUMENTARY -
Women in Film and Video New EnglandBoston
United States
February 22, 2025
post festival screening (approximate date)
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.
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