- the GBCT
- Jul 2
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Source: Kevin Williamson (1 AC, A camera), Joe Shrubb (Producer)
Working on Code of Silence gave our camera team a new perspective on the unique challenges faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing professionals within the film and television industry. More than just a technical production, this project became a journey of understanding, adaptation, and growth, as we strived to not only highlight these challenges but actively make the set more accessible and inclusive.
Before we began filming, our team participated in a day of deaf awareness training.
This session was incredibly insightful, laying the foundation for how to approach and communicate with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals on set. We learned the basics of sign language, as well as important dos and don’ts when interacting with people from the deaf community. It wasn’t just about learning the language—it was about understanding the culture, nuances, and etiquette surrounding deafness, which are crucial when trying to create an inclusive environment.
The training helped us become more mindful of the challenges that deaf professionals face on a day-to-day basis, and more importantly, it allowed us to communicate with those around us in a respectful and effective way. In a fast-paced, high-pressure set environment, where much of the communication relies on verbal cues, having a solid understanding of sign language and deaf culture was indispensable. It made the entire process smoother and ensured that everyone, regardless of their hearing ability, could work cohesively.
One key individual who made the experience so impactful was Rose, our lead on the project. She worked tirelessly to make sure that every member of the crew was onboard with the inclusion efforts. Her leadership in fostering a culture of accessibility and respect was evident throughout production.
To keep the atmosphere light and engaging while also facilitating learning, Rose introduced a "sign of the day" for the crew. This fun daily practice not only helped us expand our sign language knowledge but also created a sense of camaraderie and inclusivity on set. Each day, we would learn signs related to our specific work—whether it was related to equipment, action cues, or set-specific terminology—which helped integrate everyone into the environment, regardless of their hearing abilities.
The energy on set was palpable. Sign language, being such a visual and expressive form of communication, brought a unique dynamism to the space. The physicality of the language added an extra layer of vibrancy, and this reflected in the overall atmosphere. Everyone, from the crew to the interpreters, was motivated and enthusiastic, making the challenging
nature of the project feel like a shared, collective experience
The set itself was a busy place—often cramped, with not only the crew working in tight spaces but also interpreters needing to be on the floor to ensure clear communication. It could get pretty tight in certain moments, but the understanding and respect for the need to accommodate everyone created a sense of unity and patience.
While it was a bit of a logistical challenge, everyone made the necessary adjustments to
ensure that both the deaf and hearing members of the crew could work together without issue. The awareness of each other’s space and role on set helped create a positive, supportive environment where everyone could contribute to the project’s success.
One of the most unique aspects of the production was the number of scenes that were completely silent, adding another layer of complexity to the technical aspects of filming. In these moments, pulling focus on dialogue—usually a core part of cinematography—was impossible without the presence of an interpreter. For example, the director would rely on the interpreter to ensure that the performers were saying the right things at the right times, and that the pacing of the scene was maintained.
This reliance on interpreters in silent scenes was essential, and without them, capturing the correct performance would have been a difficult task. The interpreter’s role extended beyond simply translating spoken language; they became integral to the overall rhythm and flow of the scene, ensuring that the technical aspects like timing and emotional delivery matched the director’s vision.
The script supervisor also worked closely with an interpreter, who helped them follow the dialogue and ensure that everything was being said in the right places. This was particularly important for keeping continuity and maintaining the integrity of the story, especially in scenes where precise timing was critical.
Perhaps one of the most beautiful aspects of working on Code of Silence was witnessing the interactions between the directors and actors. With sign language as the medium, the conversations felt more considered, more deliberate. The absence of quick verbal exchanges allowed for a deeper, more thoughtful connection between the director and the actors. It was clear that every gesture, every sign, carried weight and meaning.
The careful and considered way in which actors communicated with each other and their directors created a deeper sense of authenticity. Watching these interactions unfold on set, it was easy to see how much effort and care went into making sure the performances felt real and true to the experience of the characters.
All of these elements—deaf awareness training, Rose’s leadership, the experience of working with interpreters, learning some sign language, and communicating with our deaf trainee— transformed what could have been a challenging set into a truly rewarding experience. While we did face hurdles, such as adjusting to different interpreters and figuring out the best ways to communicate without disturbing the flow of production, the overall sense of inclusivity and collaboration made it all worth it.
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about knowing that your work is actively helping to create a more accessible environment for everyone involved. For those of us on the camera team, this project wasn’t just about capturing a story; it was about making sure that every voice on set could be heard, regardless of whether it was spoken or signed. The project pushed us to think outside of our usual technical roles and to see the bigger picture of representation and accessibility.
While Code of Silence may have been just one project, it has left a lasting impact on those involved. The experience has sparked important conversations about how to continue proving the accessibility and inclusivity of the film and television industry, and how to make the set environment more welcoming for everyone, regardless of ability.
Looking forward, it’s clear that there’s still work to be done—but the lessons we learned on this project have equipped us with the tools and understanding to continue fostering a more inclusive industry. Having the chance to learn some sign language, engage with deaf professionals, and contribute to the creation of a more inclusive workplace has been
both challenging and rewarding.
