We all know that the producer is one of the most important people involved in any production. However, many people don’t actually know what the role consists of. A producer doesn’t film, direct, or write the movie – so what does a producer do, exactly?
In this article, we’ll discuss the real job description of a film producer. We’ll also discuss the various types of producers you may come across in the industry, before giving you some tips on how you can pick up the skills you’ll need to pursue a career in producing.
What is the Producer Definition?
The film producer is responsible for overseeing the entire production. Often referred to as “the money person,” a large part of the producer’s role is to ensure the production is adequately funded. Ultimately, they often ends up owning the rights to the film upon its completion.
They are usually hired by a larger production company. In the same way that writers pitch novels to publishing companies, filmmakers pitch films to production companies. In the book world, the publishing company would then hire a publisher to oversee the production of the novel. In films, the producer is similar to a publisher.
Some films have individual producers operating separately from any production company & This article will help you to write a great pitch to producers.
What Does a Producer Actually Do?
The producer is an essential part of any production because they help to make the film possible, playing an active role in every stage of the film’s development, filming, and marketing.
Let’s take a look at some of the common responsibilities of the producer throughout the filmmaking process.
Development
In many cases, they will seek out projects to transform into films. they are always looking for fresh material, whether it be a script, a novel, or even a true story. When a producer finds material that they wish to develop, they usually take responsibility for buying the literary property rights.
If the idea needs to be transformed into a film script, they will then work with a writer to develop the idea. Depending on the individual, the producer’s role in this stage of development can vary. In some cases, the producer will be intricately involved in the scriptwriting process, giving feedback and notes with each rewrite. In other cases, the producer will take more of a backseat.
Once the script is complete (or close to completion), they will present the script to studios and investors. This stage of the development process is crucial. Without proper funding and support, most films never make it off the ground. The producer’s job at this stage is to ensure the film has the money behind it to begin the pre-production phase.
Pre-Production
The pre-production phase of filmmaking usually consists of hiring a production team, casting the roles, and preparing for the logistical complexities that come with filming. The producer is usually involved throughout the process. In most cases, the producer is like the CEO of the production, responsible for overseeing all of the decision-making that goes on during pre-production.
Because they are responsible for the film’s funding, they are usually given the last word when it comes to casting and hiring decisions during this stage. Their role becomes incredibly collaborative during pre-production, as they will work with a casting director and with the director to come to an agreement on who will be in the film, where it will be shot, and so on.
With this in mind, it’s vital that the producer shares an artistic vision with the rest of the team. A good producer will know exactly what their artistic vision for the film is and will be able to communicate this vision with their production team to avoid disagreements and compromises.
Production
Again, during this phase, They will continue to oversee the entire team. During production, most producers will bow out and let the production team get to work. By the time the cameras start rolling, a detailed schedule and budget should already be in place, meaning the producer will not be needed on set.
Depending on the individual, however, some of them will visit the set from time to time to make sure filming is going according to plan.
Post-Production
The post-production stage, like the production stage, does not usually involve much hands-on work from the producer. Instead, the producer will usually check in with the editing team every now and then. The producer oversees rather than leads this stage of production.
Film Release
Once the film is complete, the producer becomes a key player once again. As the effective owner of the film, the producer will be in charge of marketing the film prior to its release. The producer will usually work with a skilled film marketing team to develop a marketing strategy.
The release of the film needs to be surrounded by hype and interest in order for the film to do well at festivals and at the box office. The producer might arrange interviews, press conferences, trailer releases, poster placements, and any other promotional events or materials deemed necessary to generate interest in the film.
Types of Producers
In film and TV, you will come across a range of producer roles. In large film productions, there are often several producers involved, each with their own role to play. Here is some information on what the various types of producers tend to be responsible for in the filmmaking process.
Executive Producer
The executive producer is in charge of all other producers involved in the project. Their responsibility is to ensure that each producer is fulfilling their individual role. In many cases, the executive producer is also in charge of the finances and business aspects of the production.
Line Producer
The line producer is responsible for the day-to-day operations on set. This is a managerial role that requires plenty of organisational and administrative skills.
Coordinating Producer
If a film is large enough to have multiple producers, the coordinating producer works to ensure that a common goal is achieved. This role is all about bringing the other producers together as a cohesive, functional unit.
Associate or Assistant Producer
The assistant producer’s role is to help the producer throughout the development and production of the film. This producer may take on a wide variety of odd jobs including lots of administrative tasks such as scheduling, hiring, and planning.
How to Become a Producer for Film and TV
If you’re wondering how to become a producer, there is no one method that is guaranteed to bring you success. Most professional film producers begin their careers in other areas of filmmaking. Other producers come from a finance or business background. If you are interested in becoming a producer, try to cultivate some of the necessary skills, such as:
- Organisation and scheduling
- Delegating tasks
- Leadership
- Fundraising
- Budgeting
In addition to these practical skills, you will need to develop your own unique artistic eye. As a producer, you should be able to identify and communicate the way you want a film to look and feel.
You will also need to become a pro at networking. The film and TV industry is fairly insular. Without connections in the industry, you may find it difficult to get your feet off the ground as a producer.
What Does a Producer Do in TV?
For TV productions, the producer role tends to change in a few key ways. Many TV producers take on an executive, business role once a TV program is up and running. Other TV producers are “Segment Producers”. In other words, they are hired to produce one series or even a single episode of a large-scale television program.
A TV producer’s main responsibilities are to market and raise funds for the production. The marketing and budgeting process tends to differ in practice from film because of the timing and scale of TV. While films are marketed in one short and sharp blast prior to the release date, television programs need to be marketed for a longer period of time – sometimes for years on end.
Final Thoughts
No two producers are alike. The role can change drastically depending on the production’s budget and size. However, almost all film and TV producers are primarily responsible for the fundraising and marketing aspects of the production. If you are keen to become a producer, try to hone your leadership and business skills, while maintaining your interest in the artistry of film. We hope this guide has helped to shed some light on the mystery and mystique of the film producer.