They all had got up and gone to work today, to come to a set in western Canada to tell this little story we wrote.
Around 1:15 AM last night the 1st assistant director gathered everyone around and with a nod from the producer announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, that’s a wrap on The Color of Rain!”
There is a certain vibe on the last day of shooting a movie. At least there was on this one. There were lots of hugs all day long. People taking phone pictures of each other, and exchanging promises of staying in touch. There were scenes to shoot – lots of work to still accomplish – but overall, without a doubt it was the most special day of the shoot.
At one point, I took a walk away from the set and, turning to gaze back, I saw trucks and equipment and general “set debris”. I also saw hundreds of people working. (We had over a hundred extras this day.) They all had got up and gone to work today, to come to a set in western Canada to tell this little story we wrote. It washed over me and humbled me, and left me with these thoughts…
First, I’d recommend having a movie made about your life. It really is a blast! Second, if you do, get to know Craft Services and the 1st and 2nd ADs. They will become your best friends on a set.
Lastly, give thanks. My wife Gina and I know well that we didn’t “deserve” this. It’s odd, and humbling, and mysterious, and scary, and confusing, and ultimately (and hopefully), it will connect us to new people and new ways to express our faith and live generously.
And whether you’re at a funeral for a loved one or on a movie set in Hollywood, THAT is the grace of God.
