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The director's cut
Time Team uses a variety of film directors to make its programmes. You may have noticed that some shows have more light-hearted moments while others appear more academic. It's all down to the site, the archaeology it reveals and the story the director wants to tell.
'In a lot of ways a three-day Time Team shoot is barely controlled chaos,' says Nick Metcalfe, director of the Green Island, South Perrott, Castle Howard and Hanslope programmes.
'There's an awful lot happening all the time, lots of trenches, and you need crews who can shoot what's happening and capture the essence of the story all the time non-stop. Most directors have crews they prefer to use because they know that they shoot material the way they like it. It's difficult with three crews working on each programme to follow what each of them is doing all the time, so you need guys you can rely on. Time Team is one of those shows that I love doing, it's just a really good bunch of people.'
Nick holds regular meetings with his crews and the programme's producers to make sure everyone is up to speed on how the story is developing and is aware of the areas he wants to concentrate on. The feel of the programme is carefully guided along as he directs the unfolding action.
'It's so important to stay updated with what's happening on the site,' Nick says. 'Of course you never know what you're going to find, so it can be like flying by the seat of your pants, but when something unexpected happens that nervous energy just fuels the programme. We're lucky enough to have some very experienced people on Time Team, so there's not much that could really stump us. Some sites give us a clear story to tell but others offer the possibility of telling a couple of different stories on the evidence that's found.'
'There are three sides to telling the story really, Nick says. 'Firstly, you get a real feel for the site when you're digging it. Then, after the filming, you get to see everything again by reviewing all the tapes. And finally you get to really form the feel of the programme in the edit.'
Hear Nick Metcalfe talk about directing.
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