Director, Sci-Fi Pilot (Mid-Level)

BlockReel; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

BlockReel seeks a skilled, mid-level director to helm an independent pilot in New York, NY. Principal photography is planned for 10–12 days in October 2026, with prep includes remote and on-site meetings.

The project is a gritty sci‑fi drama about corporate surveillance and personal freedom, with a grounded near-future aesthetic and strong actor collaboration. You will guide performances, translate the script to screen, and shape the visual style while ensuring efficient set operations.

Qualifications

• Experience directing narrative pilots or short films with sci-fi elements is essential.
• Mid-level director with a strong directorial vision.
• Ability to guide performances and work with actors.
• Translate the script to screen and shape the visual style.
• Maintain efficient set operations on a small crew.

Responsibilities

• Guiding performances on set.
• Translating the script to screen.
• Overseeing visual style and pacing.
• Maintaining efficient set operations with a small crew.

Skills

Directing

Visual storytelling

Actor collaboration

Script to screen

Job description

Filming for an independent pilot production will take place in New York, NY, with principal photography scheduled for 10-12 days over October 2026. We're seeking a skilled, mid-level director to helm our upcoming pilot, a gritty sci‑fi drama exploring themes of corporate surveillance and individual freedom. It's a character‑driven piece with a strong visual aesthetic, aiming for a grounded, near‑future feel similar to early Black Mirror or Mr. Robot. This is a unique opportunity to shape a compelling story from the ground up, with potential for series pickup. We're looking for someone who can bring a strong directorial vision while collaborating effectively with a small, dedicated crew. Key responsibilities include guiding performances, translating the script to screen, overseeing visual style, and maintaining efficient set operations. Experience directing narrative pilots or short films with sci‑fi elements is essential. Please provide a directing reel demonstrating your visual storytelling and ability to work with actors. Compensation is $300-500/day. Gear will be provided, but a director's comfort with various production workflows is key. Prep will involve approximately 2-3 weeks of remote and in-person meetings. We'll be reviewing applications through November 12, 2026.

Budget Range

$300-500/day