I heard yesterday of the sad passing last month of Patrick Clayton (1st Assistant Director/ Production Supervisor) from his close friend and regular collaborator over multiple films Michael Stevenson.
Many people in the Production Guild will remember Patrick who was one of the finest first assistant directors in the industry. He was world class.
Patrick was a legend, well mannered, calm, honest, loyal, hugely respected, very much liked by producers, directors, cast and crew alike and knew how to run a film set seamlessly. His preparation on a film was impeccable. He was a natural, and loved the process of making films. Also he had a great sense of humour (a must!). Working for and alongside him was a privilege for those of us lucky enough to have had the opportunity.
His credit list was vast, and included such films as a 1st Assistant Director - City of Ember, Buffalo Soldiers, End of the Affair, Event Horizon, In Love and War, Michael Collins, Scandal, Interview with a Vampire, Shadowlands, White Hunter Black Heart, Gorilla’s in the Mist, Club Paradise, The Bride, Sheena, Lassiter, Mad Max 2, Green Ice, Hopscotch etc and as a 2nd Assistant Director - classics such as Tunes of Glory, Where Eagles Dare to name but a few.
As a production manager / supervisor / unit manager: 1492 Conquest of Paradise, The Keep, Mad Max, Murphys Way, and Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines.
So much repeat business with top directors - like Richard Attenborough and Neil Jordan on multiple occasions.
Beyond being a great assistant director, Patrick was also the kindest and most gentle of people, he led by example. He worked many times with the same team of AD's, who were taught by him. His regular AD teams included Chris Carreras, Chris Brock, Michael Stevenson, Tim Lewis, Nick Laws, myself and many many more. He was an amazing mentor. Anyone who worked for Patrick learnt from him, he made them up their game.
He will be hugely missed, but his work across all those films will be up there on the screen as a reminder of his exceptional talent.
Thoughts at this time are very much with his wife Patricia, and his three sons - Mark, Sean and Aaron.
RIP - Patrick.
With huge thanks, love and respect.
Callum McDougall.
Funeral Arrangements :
Friends and colleagues wishing to attend would be welcome.
Service:
Friday 24 March 2023 at 11am
All Saints Church,
94 Shenley Road,
Borehamwood,
Herts. WD6 1EB
Notes:
There will be a private burial following the service for family members only please.
The family have requested no flowers please, but anyone wishing to make a donation please kindly see below:
Hospice of St. Francis (Berkhamsted) which is where Patrick spent his last few days. They did a wonderful job of looking after him in a loving and calm setting for his last remaining days out of Hospital.
Hospice of St. Francis (Berkhamsted) website.