Kris Tabori - Director / Actor / Producer - “Pursued”, “Star Wars - Knights of the old Republic”, “Chasing Amy”

“I had the great fortune of working with Robert Crippen in the early 2000s on a small film I directed, where he was the first AD. From day one, it was clear that he wasn’t just keeping the production on schedule—he was shaping it with precision, intelligence, and an innate understanding of how every decision affected the bigger picture.

Robert always knew exactly how the day would unfold. I’d optimistically predict we’d be on the third scene by lunch, and he’d gently correct me—laying out exactly where we’d be and why. And he was always right. But his skills went far beyond time management. While prepping, he wasn’t just “boarding” the script—he was deeply attuned to how scheduling affected every aspect of production and even the quality and intent of the film. He knew when a dramatic scene needed to be earlier in the day so actors could bring their best, when a DP would need extra time for lighting, or how traffic between locations could derail a plan. Because he factored in everything, we moved with remarkable clarity and purpose when we arrived on set.

A big part of what makes Robert so effective is the respect he commands from the crew. His military background gives him an incredible ability to run a set with discipline, efficiency, and calm authority—never through intimidation, but through competence and control. He knows exactly when to be firm and when to listen, and because of that, the crew trusts him implicitly. I never had to raise my voice; Robert made sure things ran smoothly, so I could focus on directing.

My only regret is that I only got to work with him once. Not for lack of trying—he was always in demand, and I always hoped to bring him on board again. Watching him work in prep and on set was a masterclass in how a great AD elevates a film.

If you’re a producer, director, or screenwriter with a film to make, do yourself a favor: get on your knees and beg Robert Crippen to be part of it. You won’t regret it”.

Kevin Smith - Writer / Director / Actor - “Clerks’, “Dogma”, Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back!”

Coming Soon!

Gil Bellows - Actor / Producer - “Shawshank Redemption, “Ally McBeal”

Coming soon!