There’s nothing quite as exciting as being on the set of a major production film. Dozens to hundreds of talented artists coming together to manifest a world for audiences to lose themselves in; it’s truly a tangible from of magic. Gabriel Williams has spent decades in these surroundings and finds himself more thrilled by the experience with each coming year. As a first assistant director of numerous productions from TV series to PSAs to massive budget feature films, Gabriel has pretty much experienced it all. Just as at ease with the professionals working behind the scenes as with the likes of Oscar Award winner Meryl Streep (whom he worked with on 2015’s The Giver) and BAFTA Award winner Sacha Baron Cohen (on Brothers Grimsby), Gabriel is so coveted in the industry because he is “that person” on set; omniscient, vigilant, and affable. Whether creating action sequences in Prague or crafting comedic timing in the halls of a Southern California high school, Gabriel Williams is perfectly in tune with what the artists and the scene requires. One of the most difficult accomplishments in the film industry is achieving a tone both fresh and familiar in a franchise. Gabriel has been a part of this endeavor with great success many times. His approach to such films is a study in not only how to make an incredible film, but also how to do so while basking in the joy of it.
The immense responsibility of a first assistant director is something which Gabriel takes quite seriously, even when it’s the polar opposite of the tone of a project. American Pie: Girl’s Rules is the most recent of the franchise and balances the tone of previous film’s with the delivery of a female voice. With a firm understanding of the “personality” of American Pie, Gabriel placed emphasis on scheduling. He explains, “Of course I worked closely with our director to strike the right balance in each scene, given the comedic, fast-paced nature of the American Pie series; it was crucial to allow ample time for comedic improvisation and exploration. Comedy often thrives on spontaneity and being too rigid in scheduling could stifle this. Therefore, balancing the need for efficiency with the creative needs of the film was an ongoing challenge. Ultimately, my role in a franchise film involves a lot of juggling: between maintaining the consistent tone of the franchise and ensuring the efficient day-to-day management of the film production, all while allowing room for new creativity and growth within the established universe.” That comedic tone was coupled with action for the sequel R.I.P.D. 2: Rise of the Damned. The difference between this film and American Pie: Girl’s Rules displays how the identity of a franchise is as distinct as a fingerprint. While rehearsals with the actors helped to establish the tone and comedic timing, Williams emphasizes the importance of the time spent with the stunt coordinators on R.I.P.D. 2. As with the comedy, the physicality of the stunts demanded a signature approach. In the final analysis, the key to success was effective communication and detailed planning.
Of all the film franchises he has worked on as first assistant director, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter was the greatest undertaking. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson (Shopping, Mortal Kombat, Event Horizon) and starring the iconic Milla Jovovich (Russian National Movie Award Winner of “Actress of the Decade”), this conclusion to the series was immensely important to the fans and all those involved in creating it. With a worldwide gross of more than $300 million, it was by far the highest earning film of the franchise. It is telling that even on a production of such size, Gabriel always seems to speak in terms of the people’s needs and experience rather than with a dehumanizing all-encompassing pronoun. While coordinating with each team and adhering to the director’s vision, it’s this personal approach that drives his zeal. Williams imparts, “Given the nature of the Resident Evil series, there are complex action sequences involving stunts, special effects, and even animals or vehicles. Coordinating these scenes safely and efficiently is a significant challenge. Filming often occurs in different locations and sometimes in extreme weather conditions. Managing the unexpected changes and ensuring the shoot goes on as planned can be quite challenging. Keeping everyone safe on the set, especially during action sequences or when using special effects, is a significant responsibility and always the most important to me. As the person responsible for staying on schedule for a shoot like Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, I’m always mindful of how the time available effects everyone on set. I’m very proud of what we achieved together on this film and how happy it made the public.”
Gabriel Williams is an ideal example of how a filmmaker can be steeped in the creative process while focusing on the people. He is an essential part of creating these huge films which mean a great deal to their fans. It is his ability to connect and cement clear dialogue which allows them to reach their final form. After twenty-nine years as a professional, Gabriel has never looked back on his commitment to the people and industry that he fell in love with.
Writer: Mike Winston