Overview
The producer serves as the primary organizational and managerial lead of the production, overseeing the broader coordination of the project across development, pre-production, production, post-production, and delivery. Responsibilities may include managing schedules, coordinating communication between departments, overseeing logistics, monitoring production progress, helping resolve problems, and ensuring that the production remains aligned with the practical realities of time, staffing, safety, and available resources.
Within the collaborative structure of film production, the producer is ultimately responsible for helping guide the project to successful completion while balancing creative goals against operational limitations. Unlike roles focused primarily on on-set execution or departmental coordination, the producer maintains a wider view of the entire production process and helps ensure that all parts of the project continue moving forward cohesively. The role also helps students develop leadership, communication, organizational, and decision-making skills that are central to professional producing workflows.
Pre-Production
- Do a script breakdown and production schedule using Movie Magic Scheduling. Update as needed.
- Complete a budget for the film using Movie Magic Budgeting. Update as needed.
- Make sure the show’s channel in Teams is kept up to date with the latest draft of the script, as well as updates on casting, locations, and other logistical elements.
- Work on Location Scouting to find potential shooting locations. Complete a Location Hazard Assessment Checklist. If any location hazards, then also complete a Hazard Notification Report.
- Secure each filming location by completing a Location Agreement and Shooting Plan. Make sure the location owner is clear about the nature of the production.
- Have each actor sign a Performance Agreement.
- Arrange for volunteers and/or extras if required.
- Prepare all scheduling information and other material required for the Tech Scout.
- Assist the Director with any and all logistical needs to prepare for principal photography.
- Attend the Production Meeting. Discuss any logistics and answer crewmembers’ questions.
- Check the weather periodically to monitor adverse conditions. Have a back-up plan.
- Meet with the 1st AD to discuss the schedule.
- Purchase Craft Services by the night before production.
- Pre-order lunch and arrange for it to be picked up by a volunteer on the day of production.
- Have a Greenlight Meeting with the Head of Production.
- Double check every logistical piece of information and make sure nothing has been forgotten.
On Set
- Start of day:
- Arrive at set at least 30 minutes early.
- Immediately establish contact with the location owner to make sure everything is still going as planned. Check back with them periodically throughout the day as needed.
- Throughout the day:
- Make sure everything is going as planned throughout the day, and troubleshoot logistics as needed.
- Be another set of eyes at the tap monitor to make sure all is going as planned.
- End of day:
- With 2nd AD, clean and secure location. Be the LAST TO LEAVE (except perhaps Art Dept).
- Whenever possible, do a walk-thru with the location owner to verify everything is in order.
- Leave the location better than when you arrived.
- Drop off the camera reports, camera cards & sound cards in the ER dropbox.
Post-Production
- Turn in Production Delivery Paperwork via OneDrive to the Head of Production by 9am Thursday after production.
- Turn in the hard copy originals of the Reimbursement Voucher, itemized receipts, and Meal Sign In Sheet to the Film School Accountant by 9am Thursday after production.