Big Break's 2nd Assistant Director
An interview with Sjuul Vrolijks
2nd AD* because “Caitie’s right hand when it comes to all things cast and talent” was too long for a title. When Sjuul and I first met, the first thing I asked him was: “How the hell do I pronounce your name?” “It’s like a shoe and jewel mixed together.” And that’s exactly who Sjuul is. Practical, protective, comfortable, and with a little razzle dazzle that shines bright.
Sjuul comes from the world of theatre and is currently preparing to attend a well-known theatre college here in the NL. Which is why I was so excited to have him on board. He has been an incredible influence on how I conducted the auditions. I actually don’t even think I would have been able to do them if it weren’t for him! Even though he’s young, he’s been teaching me a lot about working with actors and about keeping the stage-play energy throughout this process, which has been a real goal of mine because of the way we are filming and the limited time we have to actually shoot.
Without further ado, my 2nd AD, Sjuul:
*Technically, Sjuul’s role would be more of a 3rd AD role on a traditional set, but because we are such a compact crew, he’s working as the 2nd AD for this set
Give us a short intro of who you are, what you do normally, and what your role is on Big Break.
I am Sjuul Vrolijks, 20 years old, I studied PACT + Theater in Amsterdam, will soon be moving to Maastricht for De Theater acedemie! And, I’m the SECOND AD.
What does a second AD do (what will you be doing in this role)? What’s the hardest part of this role, and whats the most fun?
Well, I only recently got this title! First I was just helping out with organizing an audition, how to handle sending actors a yes or no, what you cast based on. And now, for the shooting part of the project, I decided to keep moving forward in the role of Second AD. Which means that I will be making sure the actors have a person to come to, I'll be getting the food, running for coffee, and be an info point. I'll basically be the actor's babysitter in a way. Which, for me, is a great opportunity to learn more about the world of the film set and film itself. You see, I'll be starting Theater school soon, where you have the Freedom to explore different art forms, and film is definitely an art I’m interested in. The story is exciting, this project is run by a woman, everybody has the freedom to be creative, and Caitie invites everyone to throw everything they have into the work of making this film come to life.
What made you want to join the Big Break crew?
Well, I really wanted to join a project without the help of my old school. One day, my Cousin Lauren told me about this project, and I heard the Words “Short Horror Movie” and “She may need some theater help,” and I was sold. Soon enough, we messaged each other and puntje bij paaltje, and I joined the crew. So far, I have been having an amazing time, already learning so much about what to do better next time.
(Also, I quickly learned that this was a queer safe space, so I couldn’t resist)
You’ve read the script and know the characters, which character are you rooting for? Which character scares you? Tell us a little about why you like/dislike these characters.
I am kind of scared about Sophia’s camera, if she doesn't start watching where she steps, one day she is going to drop that thing, and she won’t be able to use it anymore, trust me. I would say that makes me also root for her because I know, one day, she will learn. Hahah.