Collaboration with an intimacy coordinator - TV / film
Collaborating with a qualified intimacy coordinator is essential for ensuring that intimate and hyper exposed scenes are handled with care, respect, and professionalism. As a specialized professional, the intimacy coordinator is a Head of Department (HOD) for intimacy and oversees all intimate scenes in a production, prioritizing safety while enhancing artistic expression.
My unique skill set in storytelling and choreography is specifically tailored to intimate storytelling, enabling me to craft authentic and meaningful moments that deepen character relationships and enrich the narrative. I work with a consent-based and trauma-informed approach, ensuring that every scene is created with the utmost respect for boundaries, safety, and emotional well-being. This specialization fosters a safe, inclusive environment that builds trust and encourages creativity.
Photo: Young Royals S3 – Johan Paulin / Netflix
Why hiring the intimacy coordinator early is crucial!
Hiring an intimacy coordinator as Head of Department (HOD) alongside other key functions is crucial for fostering better and smoother collaboration across all departments. Engaging an intimacy coordinator from the outset creates an inclusive atmosphere, showcasing a commitment to genuine representation and respect in intimate and hyper exposed scenes.
In some projects, the involvement can begin even earlier, allowing for collaboration on the script and active participation in the casting process. This is particularly beneficial for more complex scenes or projects that involve intimate or sexual themes, ensuring that these moments are approached with the utmost care and artistry.
My process - a step-by-step overview
Photo: Snabba Cash S1 /Netflix
Script Analysis & Breakdown
I read the script to fully understand the storyline and character arcs, identifying and categorizing intimate scenes. This helps me and the production to plan for the specific needs of each scene.
Pre-Production Meetings
I collaborate with the director and key team members to establish a shared vision for intimacy, ensuring everyone is aligned from the outset.
Department Coordination
I coordinate with departments such as 1st AD, scenography, wardrobe, and makeup to ensure that all aspects of intimacy scenes prioritize actor comfort and enhance the overall quality of the scenes. This alignment is vital for a smooth production process
Rehearsals
I hold individual conversations with actors to discuss their boundaries and comfort levels before rehearsals. These discussions continue during rehearsals, fostering mutual agreement while choreographing scenes that work in alignment with the narrative. At this time, we also review intimacy garments.
Protocols and Assessments
I implement European high-standard protocols and conduct risk assessments, facilitating nudity riders to ensure ongoing support for the actors and production.
Post-Production Support
I assist with ADR and, when requested, with scene reviews during post-production. This continuity reinforces a commitment to care from start to finish.
The industry meeting on intimacy coordination.
In March 2022 the Joint Council within Film and TV (Film and TV Producers, SF Studios, the Swedish Film Institute, and the Union for Performing Arts and Film – Scen & Film) held a landmark meeting for the Swedish film and TV industry. The focus was on approaching intimate scenes more professionally and creating a safer, more inclusive work environment while enhancing production quality.
I was invited to speak alongside director Goran Kapetanović and actor Aliette Opheim about our collaboration on the TV series Knutby season 1 (starts at 40:50). Other participants included chair of Bectu’s Intimacy Coordinators Branch Yarit Dor, chair of the drama section of the Film and TV Producers Jan Blomgren, and HR and communications manager at SF Studios Kristina Linglöf. The event was moderated by Simon Norrthon, chair of the Union for Performing Arts and Film – Scen & Film
Play Video
Follow along on set!
Photo: Carl-Magnus Lindström
In October 2024, Fredrik Önnevall from the cultural program Sverige! (SVT) followed me in my work: In this feature, you’ll get a brief insight into my practice during rehearsals and on set while working on the second season of the youth series Bara Sex, alongside actors Alexander Klum and Simon Abrahamsson.
It highlights how, by focusing on storytelling, movement, and choreography, a safe and respectful environment can be created for everyone involved—and that you can actually have a bit of fun along the way.
Click here to watch the program (external link). The segment starts 3:30 into the program and continues until 10:50. In Swedish.
Play Video
Follow along on set!
In this segment of the cultural program Sverige!, you’ll gain insight into my practical practice both during rehearsals and on set while working on the second season of the youth series Bara Sex, alongside actors Alexander Klum and Simon Abrahamsson.
It highlights how, by focusing on storytelling, movement, and choreography, a safe and respectful environment can be created for everyone involved—and that you can actually have a bit of fun along the way.