The Oscar-nominated film Nickel Boys, directed by RaMell Ross, posed unique challenges for its sound department. Production sound mixer Mark LeBlanc was responsible for ensuring seamless timecode synchronization across multiple rigs and locations. Prior to this project, he relied on a timecode system that he found cumbersome and prone to synchronization issues. “I was using an older system that required a lot of cables, adapters, and (only featured a single) LED blinking to show if devices were in sync. This can lead to ‘Gotcha’s’ for your recorder, sync box, or slate, which then leads to calls from post! Which we all like to avoid!” LeBlanc explained.
The Challenge
The complexity of Nickel Boys increased as the director’s vision required a more dynamic audio approach. Beyond the standard boom mic setup, LeBlanc introduced a third stereo transmitter that could move between his main recording rig and a standalone system. However, managing timecode across multiple devices while ensuring flexibility became a significant hurdle. “I had three rigs running at any given time – my Zuca cart, bag rig, and the freestyle stereo transmitter,” LeBlanc said.
❝managing timecode across multiple devices while
ensuring flexibility became a significant hurdle.❞
The Solution: Introducing the Deity TC-1
Midway through production, LeBlanc decided to switch to the Deity TC-1 wireless timecode generator. This change provided a more reliable and user-friendly approach to timecode synchronization. “When I switched to the Deity TC-1 sync boxes, that immediately stopped being an issue. The small size and bright display made for quick checks to make sure the camera and sync boxes were talking. Oh… and those bright yellow cables make it real easy to find in the dark!” he noted.
One of the key advantages of the TC-1 was its ability to integrate seamlessly into LeBlanc’s workflow without requiring constant re-jamming of sync devices. With multiple camera bodies being prepared for specialized shots, such as overhead rigging or car-mounted setups, ensuring consistent timecode synchronization was critical. “Having all devices synced at the start of the day and deployed to all cameras meant we didn’t have to worry about spinning up another sync box and re-jam all the sync boxes,” he explained.
Results and Impact
The post-production team noticed a difference after the first day of using the Deity TC-1. “The post-production team for Nickel Boys was up and running from the first day of shooting, which I don’t see often,” LeBlanc said. “By the time we wrapped, nearly all scenes were synced up, and no issues were reported with timecode! That’s a good feeling, knowing the choices we made regarding the switch to the Deity TC-1 worked out well.”
LeBlanc also praised the TC-1’s locking 3.5mm connector, which eliminated concerns over accidental disconnections. “One of the systems I used previously did not have a locking connector, and a few too many times, the cable would get knocked out by accident. The locking connector has made that a worry of the past.” Additionally, the TC-1’s 28-hour battery life ensured reliability throughout long shooting days.
Wrap Up
The Deity TC-1 proved to be a game-changer on Nickel Boys, providing a streamlined and dependable timecode solution. By eliminating timecode-related disruptions and allowing for seamless collaboration between departments, the TC-1 significantly improved workflow efficiency. “With production budgets getting stretched and schedules getting culled, having a solid timecode system that’s easy to use and reliable allows us to concentrate on what’s really important… capturing great sound and dialog!” LeBlanc concluded.
This case study underscores the impact of the Deity TC-1 in high-stakes film production, reinforcing its role as an essential tool for modern sound professionals.