meet the team.
ria pavia
DIRECTOR
Ria Pavia’s career in the entertainment industry launched with performing gymnastics in a tampon commercial in the ‘80s. This stint propelled her into acting in TV commercials, guest spots, and film roles. Next, Ria donned her scribe hat, working as a staff writer on Ask Harriet (starring Ed Asner) and Pauly (starring Pauly Shore) for FOX. Additionally, she has scripted television pilots, features, plays, and content for various digital platforms. She served as a “punch up” writer on many feature films. Ms. Pavia’s career then segued into directing for the stage, where she has helmed more than 20 plays and musicals. Second Team marks Ria’s film directorial debut.
Director’s Statement
Second Team was birthed after I logged thousands of hours in dozens of video villages over three decades.
On season two of a recent gig, instead of wandering to crafty for yet more unearned snacks during down time, I decided to stay put and study the unsung heroes on our soundstage; the stand-ins for the leads. This group was markedly more dedicated than any I had encountered. Despite being overworked and underappreciated, they’d spring into action each time the words “Lighting Mode” were uttered.
This 30-45 minute span of time meant cat naps in trailers for some lucky stars, casting future episodes off of self-tapes for producers, and potty breaks for the rest of us. But for the stand-ins; also known as SECOND TEAM, this is where their real work began. I was their captive audience; impressed with their patience in helping to set up perfect shots for their counterparts, even know they knew they’d never be seen onscreen themselves. “Move over there,” “Try not to look down,” “Could you not laugh?” were commands barked at them. They took direction like champs. Always patient and committed.
We had a super early call one day, which started with a “second team rehearsal,” where the stand-ins marked the scene while the leads were getting camera-ready. These second team ladies were completely memorized, and they were good. Like really good. It was that morning I decided it was time to shine a light on these underdogs.
What especially struck me was the fact that they seemed content in their roles, which were less than glamorous; never attempting to overcompensate. These ladies did not seem to have the need to be competitive with one another, nor with the stars. Not even the guest stars.
What’s that like, I wondered, to be perfectly satisfied with where you’re at in life? Even if, on paper, it may not seem impressive to some. What is it like to not need to be first, but to be at home with being second… team?
“Ria’s ability to break down story, understand characters, comedy and motivation puts her at the top of her field. She enhances every scene and is a wonderful sounding board because when you talk to her about a scene, she’s already in your head with a perspective that’s spot on. I can’t wait to see what she does as a director. I believe it will be nothing short of spectacular.”
“How lucky am I to have worked with Ria! All you have to do is watch her work one day on set to know she’s ready to be the one running the show. Thoughtful, decisive and supportive, she’s the type of director you want to have behind the scenes. Very excited to support and witness this new chapter in her career!”
“Ria has a wonderful understanding of how to take performances from the page to the screen!”
