Technical Achievement Award That Cat: The Patented Silent Cat Camera Slider In 1975 Phil Saad watched a short-film by his brother-in-law Richard Dobbs, DGA and at 19 was hooked on becoming a filmmaker. Working for Dennis Switaj in New Haven, CT, Phil delved into learning all aspects of filmmaking. After traveling the US in 1978, he began his 36-year career in NYC as a key grip with NABET Local-15 and then IATSE Local-52. His mentors, Joe Babas and Talley Morse were consummate professionals and exceptional problem solvers. Phil worked with many DPâs and operators, but his lasting relationship with Robert Gantz, ASC was very loyal and collaborative. In 1998 Phil started That Cat Camera Support as an extension of his work as a grip and developed business relationships with J.L. Fisher and Chapman/Leonard. At that time, he prototyped three sliders for Table-Top and MOS shoots. They were crude and noisy but achieved new options when shooting. DPâs began requesting them for sound-shoots and although they didnât mind the noise, sound men did. Phil realized the industry could truly benefit from this equipment only if they were quiet and designed with uniformity, utility, and safety. After two years of R&D, Silent Cat⢠Camera Sliders were introduced in 2006. Philâs son, Nick, joined him in 2010 helping That Cat become the top camera support company in NYC, and Silent Cat⢠among the highest performing sliders used worldwide. They continue improving their products and manufacture 95% of the components. Silent Cat⢠Camera Sliders are proudly made and sold throughout the USA and exported to 13 other countries.
Phil Saad, photo courtesy of That Cat
Lifetime Achievement Awards 2017
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