First In Last Out
New York City, New York | Film Short
Documentary
Production Assistants are the backbone of every film set, yet their stories are rarely told. After years of industry upheaval, from COVID to strikes and shrinking opportunities, this film gives a voice to the workers who keep productions running and explores what it truly costs to break in.
First In Last Out
New York City, New York | Film Short
Documentary
1 Campaigns | New York, United States
21 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$2,600
Goal: $12,000 for production
Production Assistants are the backbone of every film set, yet their stories are rarely told. After years of industry upheaval, from COVID to strikes and shrinking opportunities, this film gives a voice to the workers who keep productions running and explores what it truly costs to break in.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
FIRST IN LAST OUT
Every film and television production begins the same way: long before the cast arrives, someone is already there. They're unlocking doors, setting up basecamp, directing traffic, distributing paperwork, answering walkies, and solving problems before anyone else even knows they exist.
They are Production Assistants. The first ones in and the last ones out.
First In Last Out was born from conversations with Production Assistants across New York City who shared stories that were equal parts inspiring, heartbreaking, hilarious, and exhausting. Behind every call time and wrap time was someone sacrificing sleep, relationships, financial stability, and sometimes their physical and mental well-being in pursuit of a dream that isn't promised.
We realized...these stories deserved a platform.
Meet the People Behind the Dream
Sara, an 11-year veteran PA deciding whether to continue pursuing a career in film.
Kirby, a former PA reflecting on what the industry gave, and took, from him.
John, a young aspiring filmmaker wondering if the sacrifices required are sustainable for him.
These are just a few of the voices featured in First In, Last Out. Their experiences are deeply personal, but their questions are universal.
Through intimate interviews and visual portraits of life on set, First In Last Out follows Production Assistants working in New York's film and television industry. It asks a universal question: how much are we willing to sacrifice for a dream that isn't guaranteed?
The film industry is changing rapidly. Fewer productions, fewer opportunities, and increasing uncertainty have left many entry-level workers questioning whether there is still a path forward. At a moment when conversations about labor, burnout, and creative careers are happening everywhere, the experiences of Production Assistants offer a unique window into what ambition can actually look like.
WHY THIS STORY? WHY NOW?
The film industry is changing rapidly. Fewer productions, fewer opportunities, and increasing uncertainty have left many emerging crew members questioning whether there is still a path forward.
At the same time, conversations around labor, burnout, and sustainability in creative careers are happening across the industry. Production Assistants offer a unique window into that conversation because they are often where careers begin, and where many of the industry’s biggest challenges are first experienced. This is a story about filmmaking, but more importantly, it is a story about the people who make filmmaking possible.
WHY ARE WE MAKING THIS?
My name is Allie Clancy, and I am the director of First In Last Out.
For as long as I can remember, film and television have been at the center of my life. I fell in love with storytelling as a teenager, pursued a degree in Entertainment Media, moved to New York City, and eventually got my start on set as a COVID Production Assistant.
Over the next four years, I worked on sets across New York and experienced firsthand what it means to build a career from the ground up. Like so many Production Assistants, I poured everything I had into the work. Long hours became normal. Job security was nonexistent. Every project wrap meant searching for the next opportunity. Success required constant networking, relentless follow-up, and a willingness to sacrifice.
The pursuit of a career in film often demanded so much of my identity that there was little room left for anything else. After years of living this reality, I found myself asking a question I knew many others were asking too: Why do we do it? Why are so many people willing to give so much to a dream that isn't guaranteed?
First In, Last Out was born from that question.
Along the way, I met my producing partner, Elana, and we immediately connected over our shared experiences working in the industry. We both understood the challenges, sacrifices, and uncertainty that come with building a career in film, and we knew this was a story we wanted to tell together.
From our first conversations, it was clear that our shared passion for supporting the people behind the scenes could become something bigger. First In Last Out would not be what it is today without Elana’s partnership, perspective, and unwavering support in helping bring this project to life.
This film is deeply personal because we have stood in these shoes ourselves. We have watched close friends and colleagues navigate the same uncertainty, exhaustion, and sacrifice in pursuit of careers they care deeply about.
This documentary is for them.
It is a love letter to the Production Assistant role and to the people who are first to arrive, last to leave, and essential to every production. It is an opportunity to share their stories honestly, celebrate their resilience, and explore what keeps them going despite the obstacles they face.
When someone gives everything to a career that doesn't always love them back, there is usually a reason. This film seeks to understand that reason.
WHERE WE ARE NOW
After years of conversations, development, and gathering stories from members of the PA community, we are ready to bring First In Last Out into production. This crowdfunding campaign will directly support the next phase of the film:
Production
- filming interviews with current and former Production Assistants
- securing filming locations
- supporting travel and production needs
Creating Opportunities
- hiring emerging Production Assistants and giving first-time crew members hands-on experience and professional credits
Supporting the Team
- providing meals and essential production support during filming
Bringing the Story Together
- editing, sound, color, and post-production finishing
OUR ROADMAP
With your support, we will use this campaign to complete production and move into post-production.
Summer 2026
Production interviews + filming
Fall/Winter 2026
Editing, sound, and finishing
2027
Festival submissions, community screenings, and sharing the film with audiences
Our goal is not just to make this documentary, it is to make sure these stories reach the people who need to hear them.
JOIN THE CREW
Every contribution helps us tell a story that has been overlooked for too long.
Whether you donate, share the campaign, or simply follow along, you are helping us shine a light on the people who make this industry possible.
First In Last Out has been years in the making. Thank you for helping us shine a light on the people holding everything together.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Feed our Crew
Costs $1,500
Long days require fuel. Help keep our crew and participants fed, hydrated, and focused on production.
Secure Filming Locations
Costs $2,000
Help us secure professional spaces where participants can safely and comfortably share their stories.
Capture The Stories
Costs $3,000
Help us film interviews with production assistants and crew members across New York and beyond.
Hire Emerging PAs
Costs $2,000
Help aspiring production assistants gain on-set experience and earn valuable credits on the film.
Protect the Footage
Costs $500
Help us safely store, back up, and preserve every interview and story captured during production.
Edit the Film
Costs $2,000
Help transform hundreds of hours of footage into a powerful documentary about life below the line.
Bring the Film to Audiences
Costs $1,000
Help share these stories through festivals, screenings, and community events nationwide.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE TEAM
We’re a small team of filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives brought together by a shared belief that the people behind the scenes deserve to be seen.
Based in New York City, our team came together through years of working across different corners of the entertainment industry. Through different projects, sets, and creative communities, we found each other and bonded over a shared love for this industry and the people who make it possible.
Many of us have experienced the realities of production firsthand, from long hours on set to the constant dedication it takes to build a career behind the camera. Those experiences shaped the way we approach this film: with honesty, respect, and a deep appreciation for the people whose work often goes unnoticed.
Allie Clancy, Director
A filmmaker and storyteller with a background in entertainment media, Allie began her career in New York as a Production Assistant and has spent the last several years working across film and television productions. After experiencing the realities of building a career from the ground up, she created First In Last Out to share the stories of the people who make the industry move.
Elana, Executive Producer
With a background producing live events and managing creative productions, Elana brings experience in production, coordination, and bringing ambitious ideas to life. After connecting with Allie over their shared experiences in the industry, the two immediately recognized the importance of telling this story together.
John, Line Producer
With a background in finance and experience as a camera operator for the Big Ten Network, John brings a unique combination of production knowledge, technical experience, and operational expertise to the team.
Kirby, Editor
A full-time editor and longtime creative collaborator, Kirby brings a strong storytelling perspective and a deep understanding of how to shape real experiences into meaningful narratives.
Taylor, Creative / Photography
A Production Assistant in the live events space with a background in photography and creative direction, Taylor brings a visual eye and a passion for capturing the moments and people that often exist behind the spotlight.
Together, we’re committed to creating a documentary that honors the Production Assistant experience: celebrating the resilience, ambition, and humanity of the people who are always first in and last out.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
FIRST IN LAST OUT
Every film and television production begins the same way: long before the cast arrives, someone is already there. They're unlocking doors, setting up basecamp, directing traffic, distributing paperwork, answering walkies, and solving problems before anyone else even knows they exist.
They are Production Assistants. The first ones in and the last ones out.
First In Last Out was born from conversations with Production Assistants across New York City who shared stories that were equal parts inspiring, heartbreaking, hilarious, and exhausting. Behind every call time and wrap time was someone sacrificing sleep, relationships, financial stability, and sometimes their physical and mental well-being in pursuit of a dream that isn't promised.
We realized...these stories deserved a platform.
Meet the People Behind the Dream
Sara, an 11-year veteran PA deciding whether to continue pursuing a career in film.
Kirby, a former PA reflecting on what the industry gave, and took, from him.
John, a young aspiring filmmaker wondering if the sacrifices required are sustainable for him.
These are just a few of the voices featured in First In, Last Out. Their experiences are deeply personal, but their questions are universal.
Through intimate interviews and visual portraits of life on set, First In Last Out follows Production Assistants working in New York's film and television industry. It asks a universal question: how much are we willing to sacrifice for a dream that isn't guaranteed?
The film industry is changing rapidly. Fewer productions, fewer opportunities, and increasing uncertainty have left many entry-level workers questioning whether there is still a path forward. At a moment when conversations about labor, burnout, and creative careers are happening everywhere, the experiences of Production Assistants offer a unique window into what ambition can actually look like.
WHY THIS STORY? WHY NOW?
The film industry is changing rapidly. Fewer productions, fewer opportunities, and increasing uncertainty have left many emerging crew members questioning whether there is still a path forward.
At the same time, conversations around labor, burnout, and sustainability in creative careers are happening across the industry. Production Assistants offer a unique window into that conversation because they are often where careers begin, and where many of the industry’s biggest challenges are first experienced. This is a story about filmmaking, but more importantly, it is a story about the people who make filmmaking possible.
WHY ARE WE MAKING THIS?
My name is Allie Clancy, and I am the director of First In Last Out.
For as long as I can remember, film and television have been at the center of my life. I fell in love with storytelling as a teenager, pursued a degree in Entertainment Media, moved to New York City, and eventually got my start on set as a COVID Production Assistant.
Over the next four years, I worked on sets across New York and experienced firsthand what it means to build a career from the ground up. Like so many Production Assistants, I poured everything I had into the work. Long hours became normal. Job security was nonexistent. Every project wrap meant searching for the next opportunity. Success required constant networking, relentless follow-up, and a willingness to sacrifice.
The pursuit of a career in film often demanded so much of my identity that there was little room left for anything else. After years of living this reality, I found myself asking a question I knew many others were asking too: Why do we do it? Why are so many people willing to give so much to a dream that isn't guaranteed?
First In, Last Out was born from that question.
Along the way, I met my producing partner, Elana, and we immediately connected over our shared experiences working in the industry. We both understood the challenges, sacrifices, and uncertainty that come with building a career in film, and we knew this was a story we wanted to tell together.
From our first conversations, it was clear that our shared passion for supporting the people behind the scenes could become something bigger. First In Last Out would not be what it is today without Elana’s partnership, perspective, and unwavering support in helping bring this project to life.
This film is deeply personal because we have stood in these shoes ourselves. We have watched close friends and colleagues navigate the same uncertainty, exhaustion, and sacrifice in pursuit of careers they care deeply about.
This documentary is for them.
It is a love letter to the Production Assistant role and to the people who are first to arrive, last to leave, and essential to every production. It is an opportunity to share their stories honestly, celebrate their resilience, and explore what keeps them going despite the obstacles they face.
When someone gives everything to a career that doesn't always love them back, there is usually a reason. This film seeks to understand that reason.
WHERE WE ARE NOW
After years of conversations, development, and gathering stories from members of the PA community, we are ready to bring First In Last Out into production. This crowdfunding campaign will directly support the next phase of the film:
Production
- filming interviews with current and former Production Assistants
- securing filming locations
- supporting travel and production needs
Creating Opportunities
- hiring emerging Production Assistants and giving first-time crew members hands-on experience and professional credits
Supporting the Team
- providing meals and essential production support during filming
Bringing the Story Together
- editing, sound, color, and post-production finishing
OUR ROADMAP
With your support, we will use this campaign to complete production and move into post-production.
Summer 2026
Production interviews + filming
Fall/Winter 2026
Editing, sound, and finishing
2027
Festival submissions, community screenings, and sharing the film with audiences
Our goal is not just to make this documentary, it is to make sure these stories reach the people who need to hear them.
JOIN THE CREW
Every contribution helps us tell a story that has been overlooked for too long.
Whether you donate, share the campaign, or simply follow along, you are helping us shine a light on the people who make this industry possible.
First In Last Out has been years in the making. Thank you for helping us shine a light on the people holding everything together.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Feed our Crew
Costs $1,500
Long days require fuel. Help keep our crew and participants fed, hydrated, and focused on production.
Secure Filming Locations
Costs $2,000
Help us secure professional spaces where participants can safely and comfortably share their stories.
Capture The Stories
Costs $3,000
Help us film interviews with production assistants and crew members across New York and beyond.
Hire Emerging PAs
Costs $2,000
Help aspiring production assistants gain on-set experience and earn valuable credits on the film.
Protect the Footage
Costs $500
Help us safely store, back up, and preserve every interview and story captured during production.
Edit the Film
Costs $2,000
Help transform hundreds of hours of footage into a powerful documentary about life below the line.
Bring the Film to Audiences
Costs $1,000
Help share these stories through festivals, screenings, and community events nationwide.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE TEAM
We’re a small team of filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives brought together by a shared belief that the people behind the scenes deserve to be seen.
Based in New York City, our team came together through years of working across different corners of the entertainment industry. Through different projects, sets, and creative communities, we found each other and bonded over a shared love for this industry and the people who make it possible.
Many of us have experienced the realities of production firsthand, from long hours on set to the constant dedication it takes to build a career behind the camera. Those experiences shaped the way we approach this film: with honesty, respect, and a deep appreciation for the people whose work often goes unnoticed.
Allie Clancy, Director
A filmmaker and storyteller with a background in entertainment media, Allie began her career in New York as a Production Assistant and has spent the last several years working across film and television productions. After experiencing the realities of building a career from the ground up, she created First In Last Out to share the stories of the people who make the industry move.
Elana, Executive Producer
With a background producing live events and managing creative productions, Elana brings experience in production, coordination, and bringing ambitious ideas to life. After connecting with Allie over their shared experiences in the industry, the two immediately recognized the importance of telling this story together.
John, Line Producer
With a background in finance and experience as a camera operator for the Big Ten Network, John brings a unique combination of production knowledge, technical experience, and operational expertise to the team.
Kirby, Editor
A full-time editor and longtime creative collaborator, Kirby brings a strong storytelling perspective and a deep understanding of how to shape real experiences into meaningful narratives.
Taylor, Creative / Photography
A Production Assistant in the live events space with a background in photography and creative direction, Taylor brings a visual eye and a passion for capturing the moments and people that often exist behind the spotlight.
Together, we’re committed to creating a documentary that honors the Production Assistant experience: celebrating the resilience, ambition, and humanity of the people who are always first in and last out.