
In many films, it’s the directors who receive most of the praise, but first assistant directors are equally important in bringing ideas to life – a topic excellently explored in HBO’s latest series, The Franchise. Many filmmakers and producers have started their careers as assistant directors, while others find this role particularly fitting due to its blend of creative directing with production management. Notably, the talented Adam Somner, who sadly passed away on Nov. 27, 2024, at the age of 59 from anaplastic thyroid cancer, was renowned for his work in this role. He collaborated with film giants such as Steven Spielberg, Paul Thomas Anderson, Martin Scorsese, Ridley Scott, Wes Anderson, and Alejandro G. Iñárritu, among others, and boasted an impressive body of work both as a director and producer.