🎧 Craft Services Warning Signs
Rob Long on what disappearing Nespresso pods tell you about TV today
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When the streets of L.A. and New York hummed with production, Rob Long would pass so many shoots that he’d zip through and stealthily swipe a coffee and pastry. Now, though, as production shrinks, artisanal donuts and Nespresso pods have given way to Dunkin’ and off-brand coffee. And you know the industry’s in really bad shape when rumors about having to pay for valet parking at your own agency pop up — and everyone believes them.
Transcript here.
I often noted the quality of the craft service table as a reflection of the shows I worked on during my 40 years pulling oars below decks in Hollywood, but hadn't considered those snacks as a barometer of the business as a whole ... or, given the current state of things, as a "hole," I suppose... but here we are.
This commentary reminded me of a previous "Martini Shot" missive that discussed craft service back in the good old days at KCRW, which is as timely now as it was then -- and definitely worth a listen. Some things, it seems, never change.
https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/martini-shot/craft-services?action=listen
I was all too familiar with those craft service spreads -- and the subsequent battle of the bulge -- which, for anyone interested, can be read here:
https://hollywoodjuicer.blogspot.com/2008/06/craft-service.html
It's great to have Martini Shot back -- it was must-listen weekly radio back in the day, and I welcome its return.