In Conversation with Intimacy Coordinator Pia Rickman: Navigating the New Language of On-Screen Intimacy

Intimacy coordination is no longer an optional extra - it’s fast becoming a standard practice in film, television, and stage production. In this fireside chat, intimacy coordinator Pia Rickman unpacks how the field has evolved from a niche service into a vital part of the production ecosystem. Much like stunt coordination or stage combat, intimacy work is about choreographing physical storytelling, ensuring that emotionally and physically vulnerable scenes are performed safely, creatively, and with clear consent.

This conversation-based session invites producers, first assistant directors, agents, casting professionals, and film educators to explore what this transformation means in practice. As the industry’s approach to on-screen intimacy continues to mature, new questions arise: How do we prepare for intimate scenes from the first draft to the final cut? What legal and contractual frameworks are now in place? How should casting calls and rehearsal processes evolve? And how can film schools and teachers integrate these standards into their curricula?

Through real-world examples and five key questions from the audience and moderator, Pia Rickman will shed light on the intersection of ethics, creativity, and risk management, explaining how boundaries, choreography, and open communication empower actors and filmmakers alike.

By 2025, intimacy coordination is expected to be treated with the same professionalism as stunt work. This session provides a practical and forward-looking roadmap for those who want to adapt to that shift, whether you’re producing a student film, managing a major series, or teaching the next generation of filmmakers.

A candid, informative, and empowering discussion for anyone shaping the stories - and the working environments - of tomorrow’s cinema.