This topic covers the primary responsibilities of the producer in preparation for production, after the project has gotten the “green light” to shoot. Often these tasks will overlap, with some happening during the scripting & development stage (such as hiring the Writer).
///////// FINALIZING THE SHOOTING SCRIPT
The script is further developed throughout the pre-production stage. This means the Writer will rewrite the script over and over, going through several drafts, as the Producer and client (Executive Producer) and Director (when hired) give notes to the writer. Eventually a final script is agreed upon, which is called the Shooting Script. This is the script that will be used to create the production schedule and the script used for shooting the project.
////////// BUDGETING
Once the script is close to being a final draft or shooting script, an actual budget can be generated. This consists of a top sheet or one sheet, which lists the costs of general production categories. A more detailed budget is included, outlining the cost of each specific production line item.
Key concepts/terms
Above The Line ♦ Below The Line ♦ Contingency
Resources
- Sample Budgets:
- Sample 12 Million Dollar Feature Movie Budget
- Short Animation Budget
- PreProduction – Sample Budgets from MES 152 Handout Book
- An Overview of the Film Budget by Jon M. Garon
////////// THE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE
Key concepts/terms
Script Breakdown and Production Scheduling
////////// HIRING ABOVE THE LINE PRODUCTION PERSONNEL
Above The Line Production personnel, which include additional Producer(s), Writer(s), the Director, and Principal Cast, are hired throughout the pre-production stage. The Writer is hired early on in the process, at the start of the Scripting & Development stage. The Director is hired once a first draft of the script has been written. The Principal Cast can be hired throughout the process, even right before shooting starts.
Resources
Above the Line Personnel: What does a Producer, Writer, Director, Actor Do? – by Carol Basuru
////////// LOCATIONS, AUDIO & MUSIC, RELEASES & CONTRACTS
Key concepts / terms
Shooting Permits & Location Agreements ♦ Audio ♦ Pre Production ✦✦Releases & Contracts examples start on Handouts Booklet p. 71
