- RetireHub
- Posts
- Behind the Scenes: What It’s Really Like on a TV or Movie Set
Behind the Scenes: What It’s Really Like on a TV or Movie Set
Trivia: Who wrote the novel Slaughterhouse-Five?
RetireHub
November 26, 2025
Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Wednesday newsletter is here!
Today we’re sharing fun tips on Behind the Scenes: What It’s Really Like on a TV or Movie Set, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!
Until supplies run out, receive a free commemorative mug when you sign up for a paid subscription to RetireHub.
We were recently gifted a couple dozen of these mugs and want to pass them along to our loyal readers. If you sign up for a RH premium subscription (just $5/mo — less than a cup of coffee), we’ll send you one of these mugs.
Top Deals From Around The Web
We find the best daily online deals so you don’t have to!
🧘 25% OFF – AmazonBasics Extra-Thick Exercise Mat with Carrying Strap
Stay comfortable during workouts with this extra-thick exercise mat, perfect for yoga, pilates, or floor exercises. The non-slip surface ensures stability, while the included carrying strap makes it easy to transport to classes or the gym. Cushioned and durable, it’s a reliable choice for daily fitness routines.
🍞 25% OFF – Emeril Lagasse Convection Toaster Oven, Stainless Steel
Cook, toast, and bake with this versatile convection toaster oven featuring multiple cooking functions and a spacious interior. The stainless-steel design is both stylish and easy to clean, while the convection feature ensures even, fast cooking. Ideal for small kitchens, quick meals, or entertaining.
🥾 47% OFF – AIvada Merino Wool Hiking & Thermal Socks for Winter
Keep your feet warm and dry on chilly hikes with these merino wool thermal socks. Designed for comfort and moisture-wicking, they provide cushioning and support during long walks or outdoor adventures. Durable and breathable, they’re perfect for winter hiking or everyday wear.
What We’re Reading
Get these e-book deals before they’re gone.
 | By: William Todd 1894. The richest man in Braxton is found murdered in Monarch. In his mansion across the street, his daughter is missing. New officer Milo Moffat and detective Percy Watts investigate. Was this an abduction for ransom that went horribly wrong? As clues are uncovered, Watts suspects a darker motive. Will they find the girl before it's too late? |
Dear Joanne
Your questions, her wisdom — Joanne’s here with thoughtful advice, warm humor, and a listening ear for whatever’s on your mind.
Ah, Thanksgiving. The one holiday where some of us pretend to be calm, grateful adults while frantically calculating whether a turkey really needs 20 minutes per pound or if we can get away with ten minutes per pound if we say an extra prayer.
Back in the day when I would hang out in the kitchen with my Aunt Millie (my Mom did not have the “cooking gene” – like mother like daughter), Thanksgiving prep started three days early. Pies were made, the dough for the fresh bread and rolls was rising, and every countertop was covered with something cooling, thawing, or mysteriously “resting.” The only person not working was that one cousin who showed up empty-handed but somehow took credit for the entire meal.
I remember the smell of onions frying at 6 a.m. There was also the annual argument about whether the stuffing was “moist” or just “undercooked.” And of course, there was always one relative who tried a “new recipe,” which no one really ate.
The kids’ table was its own adventure. If you survived the flying peas, spilled milk, and at least one kid sticking olives on all ten fingers, you earned the right to graduate to the grown-ups’ table, usually around age 17.
And let’s not forget the post-dinner tradition: the family strolling one by one… directly to the couch. This is where everyone pretended to “watch the game” but really slipped into a turkey- induced coma. Later came the moment someone said, “I couldn’t eat another bite,” right before I started cutting slices of pie the size of small houses.
These days, we may celebrate a little differently. Maybe the guest list is smaller, the menu simpler, or the turkey is replaced with something else. One year when the Buffalo Bills played on Thanksgiving Day, we had a Tailgate Party rather than a full-blown Thanksgiving Dinner. That was a big hit.
Another different twist - Maybe someone else is hosting. (We tried that one year, but then it reverted back to my house – They called it Tradition, I called it “they can’t be bothered to cook and clean the mess.”)
One year I had an exchange student living with us from China. I wanted to make his first Thanksgiving with us somewhat familiar and memorable for him, so I attempted to make his favorite side dish - sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows. That dish had an identity crisis all its own, but he seemed to enjoy it. I haven’t cooked it since.
But the memories? Those are the best of all — even better than Aunt Millie’s gravy, which somehow ranged from perfect to wallpaper paste depending on whether I helped prepare it or not.
This Thanksgiving, let’s laugh at the chaos we survived, appreciate the stories we’ve collected, and enjoy every bite — even if the preparation of the mashed potatoes still starts a debate.
After all, a holiday that gives us food, family, and unlimited excuses for stretchy pants is a holiday worth celebrating.
I wish all my readers, followers and email pen pals a wonderful and glorious Thanksgiving.
Please email me and tell me how you spent your Thanksgiving. I’ll email you back and tell you my stories as well. Write me at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from each and every one of you.
Love you all!
Joanne
My favorite Thanksgiving dish: |
On this day in 1922, British archaeologist Howard Carter opened the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, revealing one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The treasures inside, including the iconic golden mask, offered an unprecedented glimpse into ancient Egyptian civilization and captured the world’s imagination. This day is now remembered as a landmark moment in history and archaeology.
Behind the Scenes: What It’s Really Like on a TV or Movie Set
Lights, cameras, action! While the final product on screen might seem effortless, a TV or movie set is a bustling hive of activity that relies on precision, collaboration, and creativity. For every scene you enjoy from the comfort of your couch, dozens — if not hundreds — of professionals work behind the camera to bring it to life. From directors and producers to camera operators, grips, costume designers, and makeup artists, everyone has a crucial role in shaping the story.
The pace on set is intense. Shooting schedules can start early in the morning and last well into the night, with breaks carefully coordinated to keep the production moving smoothly. Actors may perform the same scene multiple times from different angles, requiring patience, focus, and stamina. Meanwhile, the crew meticulously manages lighting, sound, and set details to ensure continuity, capturing every moment perfectly.
Collaboration is at the heart of any production. Even minor details, like the positioning of a coffee cup or the flicker of a candle, involve discussions between departments. Props teams, art directors, and set decorators work to create believable worlds, while costume and makeup artists ensure that characters are consistent and visually engaging. Sound engineers and composers may be working simultaneously to layer the perfect auditory experience over the visuals.
Despite the hard work, a set is also a place of creativity and problem-solving. Unexpected challenges — from weather delays to last-minute script changes — test the flexibility and ingenuity of everyone involved. Humor and camaraderie often flourish amid the chaos, creating a unique energy that’s both exhilarating and exhausting. For many, the magic of seeing a story unfold before their eyes makes every long hour worthwhile.
For audiences, understanding the layers of effort behind every scene can deepen appreciation for the art of filmmaking. It’s a world where patience, teamwork, and passion come together to transform imagination into a shared experience on screen. Next time you watch a favorite show or movie, remember: the magic isn’t just what you see on camera; it’s the dedication, skill, and collaboration that happen behind the scenes.
What part of a TV or movie set would you be most excited to explore? |
Yesterday’s Poll Results: What kind of side hustle would interest you most after 60?
Our latest poll shows that many in the community prefer a slower, more relaxed pace in this chapter of life — with over a third of respondents saying they’re not currently interested in pursuing a side hustle. Still, plenty of curiosity remains: consulting, online work, and local service gigs each drew strong interest, showing that many enjoy sharing their skills or staying lightly engaged on their own terms. Creative projects also held a meaningful slice, reflecting a continued love for artistry and self-expression. Altogether, the results highlight a balanced mix of ambition, practicality, and ease — proof that after 60, there’s no one “right” way to stay active or earn extra income.
TOP COMMENTS
“I am a public relations consultant with 15 years professional experience and 16 years teaching the subject in higher education. I cannot walk or drive, but I can work on the phone and computer.”
“Covering a local gift shop 2 afternoons a week gets me out of the house, and the chance to meet travelers from all over the world 🌎.”
“I'm not seriously interested at the moment. I have approximately 25 years of experience in security, with approximately 15 of it as a supervisor, so I would consider that as an option. I've been picking up items at auctions and reselling them, with some success.”
“I do delivery services (Roadie, Instacart Grubhub etc)”
“Work season jobs, like working at the Major League Baseball games at their ballpark, working as a ticket scanner or concession stands at the local Performing Arts Hall. ”
“My plan (pre-Covid) was to supplement my income by preparing income tax forms. I did this for several years before realizing I have other skills that are more rewarding for me.”
“I work part time at a local family owned funeral home, greeting and helping family members through the services. It's very rewarding.”
“Accounting and tax services”
“I still work part time to supplement. I also rent space in a resale shop.”
“I'm a high school and college sports official.”
“I tutor middle school math. It feels good to work one on one with students. It's good for them and me. I keep my math skills sharp.”
“Carpentry side jobs, hardware installation (hinges, door knobs etc…)”
“Just enjoying the lazy day to day for now. It's the holidays and baking takes up a bit of my time.”
Bring the Outside In: How Having Nature Indoors Can Lift Your Mood and Wellness
Embracing biophilia—our natural connection to nature—can significantly boost your wellbeing, especially when time outdoors is limited. By introducing live plants, natural materials like wood and stone, soothing water sounds, and plenty of daylight into your home, you create an environment that reduces stress, lifts your mood, and even improves air quality. These simple but powerful design choices help maintain a calming, restorative space year-round, making your home feel more alive, peaceful, and deeply connected to the natural world.
Follow us on Social Media!
Join an online community thriving in retirement! Find us on:
Every day we post retirement tips, highlights from our newsletter so you can comment and discuss in the community, and some fun retirement-themed motivation!
Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: Thirst Trap
Meaning: A thirst trap is a photo or post shared on social media intended to attract attention, compliments, or admiration, often by showing off one’s looks or charisma.
In a sentence: “Gae posted a picture of her garden in full bloom, and jokingly called it a thirst trap because she knew everyone would comment on how gorgeous it looked.”
Good News of the Day
Robotic Exoskeleton Lets Kids Walk for the First Time After Doctors Said It Was Impossible
A Toronto wellness center is using a donated Trexo robotic exoskeleton to help children with spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and other mobility challenges take their first steps—something many were told they’d never do. The device senses a child’s leg and hip movement and gently assists their strides with motors, allowing their feet to touch the ground for more natural feedback and muscle development. For families like Leo’s, who were told walking wouldn’t be possible, the exoskeleton has become a powerful tool for independence, hope, and progress.
Other Publications We Like
Check out these other email newsletters we think you’ll enjoy!
RetireHub Trivia
Want more trivia? Play our “Nostalgia Trivia Game” on our site! We add fresh questions daily, so there’s always something new to test your knowledge.
Not into trivia? No worries! We’ve got plenty of other fun games to enjoy, like:
Who wrote the novel Slaughterhouse-Five? |
The Galápagos Islands belong to which country? |
Which country’s flag features a red maple leaf? |
A QUICK ASK: First off, thank you for reading RetireHub every day. It fills our cup that so many thousands of people get joy from our little publication.
As you know, good content costs money. In order to continue supporting ourselves and to continue delivering the content you enjoy every day, we need to pay our writers. If you can, we ask you to subscribe to our paid account (for $5/month - less than a cup of coffee!) below.
If you choose to purchase a paid subscription, please know you’re supporting not only our publication, but tens of thousands of other 50+ year old Americans that get joy, entertainment, financial tips, and more from RetireHub every single day.
If you don’t join the paid plan (or can’t), no worries at all. We know times are tough. Thank you for being a part of our tiny, joyful part of the Internet.
- Jay
**RetireHub may receive affiliate compensation for links clicked within this newsletter.
***RetireHub may share poll results with advertisers.