Hosted by the First Assistant Director behind ADOLESCENCE!

PLEASE NOTE: This exclusive Stage 32 webinar is now available to watch on-demand and no longer live.

You’re in for a real treat as we dive into the world of Netflix’s smash hit ADOLESCENCE, a psychological drama that’s taken the streaming world by storm with 124 million views in just a month, landing it as the third most-watched English-language series ever on Netflix. This gripping story, centered on the aftermath of a teenager’s murder, has redefined storytelling with four episodes shot as “oners”—single, unbroken takes that have revolutionized filmmaking. We’re beyond thrilled to partner with the 1st Assistant Director, Sarah Lucas, who masterfully led hundreds of actors and crew through this groundbreaking production. Today, you’ll get an inside look at how the AD team made magic, including a case study that pulls back the curtain on their process. 

Let us introduce you to our incredible instructor, Sarah Lucas, the First Assistant Director behind ADOLESCENCE. Sarah’s career is nothing short of inspiring—she’s worked on everything from shiny floor entertainment shows to high-end TV, starting in the locations department on BBC’s DOCTORS before climbing the AD ladder from 3rd AD to 2nd AD, and now shining as a 1st AD. Her work on ADOLESCENCE was a dream come true, not just for the hard-hitting storyline, but for the challenge of shooting in a one-shot format, which she describes as an out-of-this-world experience. Sarah’s expertise doesn’t stop there—she’s currently working on the Hollywood feature ENOLA HOLMES 3, starring Millie Bobby Brown and Louis Partridge. With her wealth of experience and passion for innovative filmmaking, Sarah is the perfect guide to show you how the AD team brings a vision to life.

In this webinar, you’ll explore how the AD team for ADOLESCENCE was structured, the overall filming process—from pre-production prep to executing those seamless oners on set—and a deep dive into the case study of Episode 2, one of the most challenging yet rewarding episodes of the series. We’ll cover everything from defining each AD role, maximizing rehearsals, and overcoming obstacles, to breaking down the script and managing cast journeys for those single-take shots. By the end, you’ll walk away with practical tips, insider strategies, and a clear understanding of how to innovate as a creative collaborator in film and TV—plus, you’ll get to join a Q&A with Sarah herself! 

Let’s dive in and uncover the magic of filmmaking together.

Behind The Scenes Of ADOLESCENCE: How The AD Team Mastered One-Shot Magic On Netflix’s Smash Hit, Hosted By Sarah Lucas, First Assistant Director

Part 1: Deconstructing The AD Team

• How the AD Team was structured

• Defining each role

• Responsibilities of each role

Part 2: The Overall Filming Process
Pre-Production: Preparation Before Set

• How the AD Team prepared for filming

• Order of shooting episodes and challenges for each episode

• Key meetings to stay on track

• Key documents to stay on track

Production: Execution On Set

• Maximizing rehearsals and key lessons learned

• Essential items to stay on track

• Tips and tricks to stay on track

• Overcoming obstacles

Part 3: Case Study Of Episode 2 "School Is Hell" - 
Why Episode 2 Was The Most Challenging And How Creative Collaboration Ensured Success

Pre-Production

• Breaking down the script

• Mapping the cast journey within the school

• Mapping the supporting artists’ journey within the school

• Sharing documents and tools to help creatives understand the process

Production

• One week of cast rehearsals, one week of tech rehearsals, followed by shoot week

• Half a day to dress and set supporting artists and chaperones

• Incorporating a drone on Day 2 of shoot week

• Sharing documents and tools to help creatives understand the process

Conclusion

• Tips for breaking into film or TV

• Networking on Stage 32

• Finding your tribe

• Innovating, collaborating creatively, and breaking the mold

Q&A With Sarah Lucas

PLEASE NOTE: This exclusive Stage 32 webinar is now available to watch on-demand and no longer live.