TYLER GRUTSCH

MONTANA CREW SPOTLIGHT

Introduce yourself and tell us a few cool things about you.
I’m Tyler Grutsch, born and raised in Missoula, Montana. I didn’t make it that far; I still live and work in Missoula as the owner of Montana Video Production Rentals. I manage a fleet of eight trucks that get loaded up with various gear — from tents, tables, and chairs, to grip and electric packages — that travel all across the state.

What is the highlight of your career so far?
When I got to work as the Key Grip\Gaffer for a remote for The Daily Show was a personal highlight of mine. First, Roy Wood Jr. is hilarious, and the premise with Mayor Collins was a great building block for the segment. But it was the first time that it hit me that I was working on a show that I had watched for countless hours as a kid. I can’t deny the nostalgia I have from when they had an insanely funny cast: Carrell, Stewart, Colbert, Black, Helms, etc. It is imprinted in my mind and was probably one of the influences that guided me to my career path. 10 seasons later, I got to be a part of that show (even though it was just one segment), which was pretty special.

What is your favorite movie or TV show filmed in Montana?
That’s a tough one. There are so many to choose from. Can I combine this question into another highlight? It was a little bit of a surreal moment for me when I was working on Yellowstone with Kevin Costner on set. It immediately reminded me of the Robin Hood action figure I had when I was a kid. I vividly remember thinking (while standing on a mambo stand of a 12x12 I built to go over Kevin in a scene): This is weird. Some dopey kid from Missoula, Montana has an opportunity to work on a show with someone he had an action figure of 25 years beforehand. That show will leave a long legacy for future productions and shows coming to Montana.

What practical advice would you give others in the industry in Montana?
Be kind and never stop learning. It is a small community here in Montana and networking is extremely important. Working in this industry is incredibly fun but can also be stressful at times. Having a great attitude in the face of adversity says a lot about who you are as a person. You will spend an insane amount of time with crew members throughout a shoot; a positive demeanor goes a long way. Never stop learning. There’s no excuse for not striving to be an expert in your field. I’m far from an expert, but I’m constantly trying to better myself and my craft.

What are your favorite resources for filmmakers?
It always blows my mind how accessible information is nowadays; you can almost find a tutorial or resource on any obscure film topic by just googling. However, I have learned an infinite amount by just being on set, observing, and asking questions. Getting to learn from all the amazing mentors has truly been a gift. Find a mentor and learn from their successes and mistakes.

What do you like most about working in Montana?
I love the community. It’s such a small, tight knit group of people that have incredible work ethics and attitudes. The working culture when all the Montana “Usual Suspects” are on set is incredible. It’s a fun collaborative environment that knows how to solve problems with little resources, in extreme conditions. You can rely on the community to support each other.

How long have you worked in the film/television industry in Montana?
13 years working in television and film.

How did you get started in this line of work?
I went to school at the University of Montana, Missoula and graduated from both the Media Arts and Entertainment Management programs. I took my first job out of college as a director and producer at Beartooth NBC in Helena. From there, I worked on countless TV shows, docs, commercials, and feature films.

What positions do you usually work on films or television productions?
I’ve worked a variety of positions over the years from directing a live morning news show to an APOC for a feature film. However, you can usually find me in the grip or electrical department. I’m a dual card member of IATSE Local 488 and Local 339 and love to light and shape shadows, mid-tones, and highlights.

List three of your most notable credits.
Yellowstone
Ted K
The Daily Show