The Workers Behind the Films

The lightmen, carpenters, junior artists and technicians who make Indian films, how they are hired and paid, and the push for better safety and pay.

Behind every film are hundreds of workers who never appear on the poster.

Who they are

Technicians: camera crews, sound, editing and visual effects artists.
Craft workers: lightmen, carpenters, painters, set builders and make-up artists.
Junior artists: extras in crowd scenes.
Drivers, spot boys and caterers.

How they’re hired

Most work project to project on short contracts or daily wages.
In Mumbai, many are members of unions under the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), which negotiates minimum rates.

Working conditions

Long shifts, often 12 hours or more.
Delayed payments, sometimes months after shoots.
Safety risks: fires and accidents on sets have caused deaths.
Irregular work between projects.

Why it matters economically

A film’s budget is often dominated by star fees, while crew pay is squeezed. Better planning and payment systems can improve productivity and fairness.

Changes

Unions have pushed for insurance, timely payment and shorter shifts.
Streaming projects with larger budgets sometimes offer more structured contracts.

The lightman's day

A lightman on a Mumbai set works a 14-hour shift rigging lights. He is paid a daily rate agreed by his union but waits weeks for the producer's payment.

Thinking films are made mainly by stars and directors

Hundreds of technicians and craft workers make every film possible.

Key takeaways

Films rely on technicians, craft workers and junior artists.
Most work on daily wages or short contracts.
Long shifts, delayed pay and safety are concerns.
Unions push for insurance and timely payment.