Filming 'DISSOLUTION' - Ethics within my Practice

Shots from the film shoot of 'DISSOLUTION'

This weekend I filmed the short film 'Dissolution', directed by Eleanor Hilton, and produced by Vast Productions. Prior to the film shoot, I had signed an ACTOR/CONTRIBUTOR'S AGREEMENT STANDARD TERMS OF ENGAGEMENT. These Terms of Engagement outlined clearly and concisely what the job entailed and what rights they had over my image. I made sure to read through this engagement thoroughly leading up to the shoot so I was aware of the intricacies which the film entailed.

The nature of one scene was sexual. This did not include full nudity, a bra and knickers were to be worn, but it was still an aspect of the shoot which was outlined clearly to me when I was applying for the job. This coincides with the guidelines stated in Clause (CC13) NUDITY AND STIMULATED SEX ACTS (p.75, Equity PACT). Preceding the audition, which was done via self tape, the criteria stated clearly that there was a scene of a sexual nature. Once I got the job, I read the script and in that it clearly stated the extent of said scene.
Had I not been comfortable with that once I had read the script - it would have been well within my rights refuse to do the project, or alternatively, request a body double.

The experience during the shoot was an entirely pleasurable one. It was evident that the entire film crew were strongly aware of ethical values on a film set. They gave me breaks aplenty, frequently inquired if I needed anything (refreshments / water / tea), supplied substantial food during the entirety of the shoot and also gave me the privacy and space which I needed to get ready. Dietary requirements and preferences were also flagged up by the team, as well as the makeup artists asking if I had any allergies to any products before beginning my makeup. I felt safe, secure and also that I was in a professional environment; all factors which enable an actor to concentrate on the tasks at hand and deliver a desirable performance.

Before the scene of a sexual nature, the director ran through the sequence with me and asked again 'Are you ok with all of that?'. The assistant director said anyone who wasn't imminently needed in the room for that scene was required to leave. This meant that the only people in the room were necessary, no onlookers, as it were. They made sure the temperature was adequate for me, and had a blanket on hand between takes should I get cold. All of these factors contributed to me feeling totally at ease and therefore I could delve into the acting side of it. Had I felt uncomfortable in any way whatsoever - I know I wouldn't have been able to give a realistic performance.