If you’re a fan of television production, you might have heard about “dailies.” They’re those raw, unedited clips shot each day on set, usually watched by directors, editors, and producers to monitor progress. But what if I told you that Robert and Michelle King, the creative minds behind the hit series Elsbeth, still religiously watch every single daily? That’s right, every take, every scene, no exceptions.
Sounds a bit obsessive, right? Or maybe a little old-school? Well, it’s neither. It’s smart, intentional, and a big part of why Elsbeth consistently nails its tone, performances, and pacing. Let’s dig into why these top-tier showrunners hold onto this old tradition and how it impacts their craft.
What Are Dailies, Anyway?
Before we get deep, here’s a quick refresher. Dailies—sometimes called rushes—are the unpolished footage shot on a particular day during filming. They’re raw, unedited, and full of potential mistakes, but also gems. Watching dailies is like watching a behind-the-scenes rehearsal, offering fresh eyes on performances and direction before the editing room magic begins.
The Kings’ Old-School Commitment in a Digital Age
In today’s world of instant clips, digital effects, and fast turnaround times, many creators skim or delegate the watching of dailies. But Robert and Michelle King buck the trend. Why?
Because It Keeps Them Close to the Story
When you watch every daily, you stay intimately connected to the actors’ performances, the nuances of each scene, and the evolving emotional beats. The Kings don’t just rely on scripts or edited cuts. They immerse themselves in every moment captured, understanding how the story breathes in real time.
Spotting Tiny Details That Make a Huge Difference
The beauty of watching dailies is catching things others might miss. Maybe an actor’s subtle glance, a flubbed line that changes the meaning, or a background detail that stands out. The Kings use these insights to tweak scenes or adjust performances, enhancing Elsbeth’s authenticity.
Improving Collaboration on Set
By being hands-on with dailies, Robert and Michelle foster a collaborative atmosphere. Their team knows the creators care deeply about the craft, making everyone feel valued and motivated. It’s a creative energy boost you can’t fake.
How Watching Dailies Influences Editing and Post-Production
Watching dailies early allows the Kings to anticipate how scenes will flow in the final cut. They can flag great takes for editors, suggest reshoots, or even rethink story elements based on raw footage. This proactive approach speeds up post-production and elevates quality.
The Personal Connection to Actors
The Kings’ attention to dailies also shows their respect for the actors’ work. Seeing raw performances daily helps them understand what each actor brings, fostering trust and stronger character development. It’s a dynamic that shines through on screen.
Why Not Rely on Editors or Assistants?
Delegation is common in TV production, but the Kings stick to watching dailies personally because they believe no one else can fully grasp the creative vision the way they do. It’s about preserving their story’s soul.
Dailies as a Creative Checkpoint
The Kings treat dailies like a compass, helping them gauge if the production is headed in the right direction. If something feels off, it’s caught early, saving time, money, and headaches later.
The Discipline Behind This Practice
Watching all dailies demands focus and stamina. For Elsbeth, which often shoots intense scenes with complex characters, this discipline ensures no moment is wasted and every subtlety is captured.
How This Practice Shapes ‘Elsbeth’s’ Unique Tone
The meticulous care in watching dailies contributes to Elsbeth’s signature blend of mystery, character depth, and emotional honesty. It’s this hands-on approach that helps the show resonate deeply with audiences.
Lessons for Aspiring Creators
If you’re starting out, taking a page from the Kings means staying close to your footage, understanding your material at every level, and never losing sight of your vision—even when it’s tempting to delegate.
Can Watching Dailies Be Too Much?
Some might wonder if this intense focus slows down production. But for the Kings, it’s a time investment that pays off. Quality over speed wins, especially when building a long-lasting, beloved show.
Technology and the Evolution of Dailies
While dailies used to be physical film reels, now they’re digital files accessed anywhere. This tech evolution makes it easier for creators like the Kings to watch dailies wherever they are, keeping creative momentum high.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Watching Dailies
Watching raw footage can be thrilling and stressful. The Kings ride this wave daily, facing uncertainties but also spotting magic as it happens. It’s part of their passion.
Why Fans Should Appreciate This Behind-the-Scenes Ritual
Knowing the Kings’ dedication to dailies adds a layer of appreciation when watching Elsbeth. It reminds us great shows aren’t just written; they’re crafted painstakingly from every frame.
Conclusion
Robert and Michelle King’s devotion to watching every Elsbeth daily is a masterclass in creative dedication. It’s not about clinging to old habits but about embracing a hands-on, detailed approach that keeps their storytelling sharp, performances authentic, and production smooth. In an era of shortcuts and speed, their commitment to the craft through dailies is a refreshing reminder: the best stories are built piece by piece, take by take, with love and care. For fans, aspiring creators, or anyone curious about TV magic, the Kings’ daily ritual offers valuable insight into what makes Elsbeth so compelling.
