Who holds the direct second-in-command position to the production designer?

The art director holds the direct second-in-command position to the production designer. In film production, the production designer is responsible for the overall visual concept of the film, including the design of sets, locations, props, and costumes. The art director works closely with the production designer, implementing their vision and managing the detailed aspects of set design and creation. This includes overseeing the art department, coordinating with other production crew members, and ensuring that the artistic elements align with the project’s overall vision.

The gaffer, while essential to the production team, is focused on lighting and electrical aspects and does not have a direct connection to set design. The line producer is primarily responsible for the budget and schedule of the production rather than the artistic elements. The set decorator, on the other hand, is responsible for the decoration of the set in accordance with the production designer’s vision, but they fall under the art director's supervision rather than being second-in-command to the production designer. Thus, the role of the art director is pivotal in supporting and elevating the production designer's creative vision.