Research For My Role - Responsibilities of a Producer

This is my first time producing a film of any sort. Therefore I thought it would be a good idea for me to research what the role of producer entails, so that I can fulfill the role to the best of my ability.

THE ROLE
The producer is responsible for making sure that a high quality movie is made on-time and within the budget set for the production. As we do not have a budget for this film, I do not need to worry about this aspect of my role, however I will still ensure that the film is high-quality and fits to the brief set by our tutors.

The producer is an important part of the crew throughout the whole production process, most of the time the producer will be the first member of the crew to be chosen as they are involved in every part of the film.

PRE-PRODUCTION
I have found a lot of duties that the producer is responsible for in the pre-production process, however as this is a non-profit student film without a budget, some of these are not relevant to my role. However, the duties I will have include;

• Cast the actors (the director will also be involved in this),
• Find locations for shooting,
• Develop a schedule for pre-production and a shooting schedule,
• Plan for production,
• Get permission for locations and consent from actors.

PRODUCTION

• Give the director suggestions whilst on set,
• Handle any issues that come up with either the cast/crew/locations/props etc.,
• Make sure that everyone sticks to the schedule to ensure a smooth day of shooting,
• Review the footage at the end of each day.

POST-PRODUCTION

• Create a schedule for post-production,
• Go through the order and selection of scenes (with the director),
• Review the fine cut after the film has been edited.

SKILLS
The key skills required for a producer are;

• Good communication skills,
• Needs to be able to work well under pressure,
• Ensure compliance with regulations and codes of practice,
• Good organisational skills,
• Responsible for preparing health and safety for cast and crew.

After conducting some research, I am confident that I will be able to fulfill this role, therefore this will hopefully result in a better production.