From a young age, storytelling captivated Nathalie Zagar Abitbol, sparking a lifelong passion for film. What began as an interest in acting eventually evolved into a career behind the scenes, ensuring continuity and precision in filmmaking. Now an accomplished script supervisor, Nathalie shares insights into their journey, career highlights, and aspirations in the industry with Noam Friedlander.

Beginnings in Film

The path to a career in film was clear early on. Participating in school theater productions solidified Nathalie’s love for storytelling, leading to a move to Los Angeles. Studying film allowed for hands-on experience across various projects, shaping a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Watching stories come to life on set remains an ongoing source of inspiration.

Career Highlights

With numerous projects under their belt, three stand out as defining moments:

• The Mirror (Short Film): The first professional project as a script supervisor, this low-budget film exceeded expectations, earning festival selections and awards. It marked a turning point in their career.

• White Vinegar (Feature Film): A large-scale production requiring meticulous attention to detail over a month-long shoot. This project refined Nathalie’s efficiency and confidence on set.

• Falling in Love with My Ex-Husband Again (Vertical Drama Series): Filmed in LA mansions with an extensive cast, this high-budget series was a crash course in fast-paced filmmaking, shooting up to 18 pages a day. The series continues to grow in popularity.

Lessons from the Industry

One of the biggest misconceptions in filmmaking is the idea that “we’ll fix it in post.” Nathalie learned early on that preventing issues on set is far more efficient than relying on post-production fixes. Their advice to aspiring script supervisors? The devil is in the details. Paying close attention to continuity, framing, and consistency is key to a smooth production.

Proud Moments

Among many rewarding experiences, two stand out:

1. Being recognized during a script supervising workshop, where their instructor invited them to share industry insights with peers.

2. Managing a complex scene involving seven actors playing a board game. By preparing overhead diagrams and addressing potential issues ahead of time, Nathalie confidently navigated the shoot, solidifying their expertise in the field.

Looking Ahead

Future aspirations include:

• Working on a weekly sitcom or drama series.

• Transitioning into directing their own film.

• Being involved in a musical-to-film adaptation, fulfilling a dream of merging two artistic passions.

Each project presents new challenges and learning experiences, and Nathalie is eager to continue growing in the ever-evolving world of filmmaking. Their journey is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the art of storytelling—both in front of and behind the camera.