We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Fanni Fragner. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Fanni below.

Fanni, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I learned through a combination of formal education and hands-on experience. I completed a two-year Assistant Director course, which gave me a strong foundation, but the real learning happened on set. Working on international productions, especially American projects, exposed me to different workflows, industry standards, and high-pressure environments where I had to adapt quickly. Every set was a new learning experience, and I developed my skills by working alongside experienced professionals. Honestly, I don’t think I could have done anything to speed up the process. In this industry, it takes time to gain experience, build relationships, and establish trust. Networking isn’t something that happens overnight—it develops naturally as you work on different projects and prove yourself. Every production, every challenge, and every interaction contributes to long-term growth, so I believe the time it took was necessary. The most essential skills in this role are communication, leadership, time management, adaptability, and problem-solving. Managing schedules, coordinating departments, handling unexpected challenges, and keeping the team aligned are all critical to making a production run smoothly. People skills and networking are also crucial because strong relationships in the industry open doors to more opportunities. One of the biggest obstacles was not having industry connections at the beginning, as this is a field where who you know can be just as important as what you know. But over time, I built relationships through my work. Another challenge was that some aspects of the job simply require experience—you can study as much as you want, but until you’re actually on set handling real situations, you don’t fully understand the demands of the role.

Fanni, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a dedicated Assistant Director with extensive experience in high-profile film and television productions. My journey in the industry began with a deep love for storytelling and a keen interest in the behind-the-scenes coordination that brings cinematic visions to life. After studying at the Theatre and Film Institute, I quickly found my niche in the fast-paced world of assistant directing and production coordination.

As an AD, my primary responsibility is to ensure that a production runs smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule. I specialize in breaking down scripts, creating call sheets, and managing daily shooting schedules to optimize time and resources. On set, I act as a key liaison between the director, cinematographer, and various departments to ensure clear communication and seamless execution of each scene. Whether coordinating actors, extras, or stunts, I work to maintain order and keep production moving forward.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on major international productions such as Dune: Part Two, Moon Knight, FBI: International, The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die, and Dune: The Prophecy, among others. These experiences have honed my ability to adapt to different directing styles, production scales, and logistical challenges. Whether working on large-scale action sequences or intimate dramatic moments, I thrive under pressure and excel at problem-solving on the go. What sets me apart as an AD is my ability to stay composed in high-pressure environments while keeping cast and crew motivated. I understand the importance of efficiency without sacrificing the creative integrity of a project. My experience working across different locations—Hungary, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, and more—has given me a global perspective on filmmaking and the ability to manage complex, multinational productions. One of my proudest moments was stepping into a leadership role as a First Assistant Director on Paradise, a short film produced by Viewfinder. This experience reinforced my passion for leading teams, structuring shoots, and ensuring a seamless workflow from pre-production to post. For filmmakers and producers seeking an AD who is highly organized, adaptable, and deeply passionate about the craft, I bring a wealth of experience and a strong work ethic to every project. I believe that a well-run set is the foundation of a great film, and I take pride in being the person who ensures everything runs like clockwork.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of working in the film industry is seeing the final product on screen—knowing that all the coordination, planning, and problem-solving behind the scenes contributed to something truly impactful. There’s nothing quite like watching a project I’ve worked on come to life, especially when it resonates with audiences worldwide. It’s even more fulfilling when these projects receive critical recognition. Dune: Part Two is part of a franchise that has won multiple Academy Awards, and Moon Knight was nominated for an Emmy. Being part of teams that bring such high-caliber stories to life is an incredible feeling. Knowing that my behind-the-scenes work contributes to award-winning films and series makes all the challenges—long hours, tight schedules, and last-minute changes—completely worth it. It’s a reminder of why I love what I do, and it motivates me to keep pushing for excellence in every project I take on.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

To best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem, society can focus on fostering an environment where creativity is valued, accessible, and sustainable. One key approach would be increasing investment in education and training programs that give individuals the tools they need to succeed, not just in terms of technical skills but also in creative thinking and innovation. Public funding and grants for the arts can provide financial stability, allowing artists to focus on their craft without the constant pressure of financial insecurity. Additionally, supporting creative collaborations across industries—such as between film, technology, and design—can spark new ideas and open doors to diverse projects. It’s also important for society to celebrate and recognize the value of art in everyday life, whether through cultural initiatives, art festivals, or by encouraging the integration of creative disciplines in schools and communities. Finally, fostering a strong network and community for creatives can provide mentorship opportunities and help artists build connections, allowing them to navigate their careers and grow their influence. By supporting creative talent, we create a more dynamic and innovative society overall.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12229687/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fannifragner/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fannifragner