Film Production is the process of making a film.

For the exam you’ll need to understand all the stages of film production, these are;

Development: This is simply the process of ‘finding’ a story. Ideas for films come from a variety of sources; they can range from novels, real life events to computer game adaptations. Once you’ve got an idea you’ll need someone to write a pitch for you which you take to a film producer in an attempt to get some funding to make your film. Even at his very early stage you need a very clear idea of who you’re aiming you film so you can include elements that will appeal to them.

Pre-Production: Once you’ve got funding you establish your budget and can begin to get a film crew together, you can storyboard the script. You also need to break the script down into individual scenes and identify all the locations, props, cast members, costumes, special effects and visual effects needed.

Production: This is simply the process of ‘making’ the film. Provided you’ve done your job properly in the pre-production stage making of the film it should be straightforward. ‘Film’ is very expensive and difficult to store so an increasing number of film makers are using digital cameras to save money.

Post-production- During this stage you take all the ‘film’ you’ve shot and give it to the film editor. They will then begin putting it together. Special effects will be added, a soundtrack will be added, and any missing dialogue will be re-recorded and added resulting in a ‘rough cut’. This will be shown to the director and a test audience who will offer feedback. Often this causes scenes to be filmed and added or removed.

Writer- they decide the story line to the film, they produce the script that the actors shall follow, the writer defines and clarifies the idea, the plot and the main characters, and turns it into something tangible. The rest of the crew work to the writers intent, and cast actors mathching the character description.

Producer- the producer turns the initial idea into a reality. The producer will oversee the selecting the script, coordinating writing, directing, editing and arranging finance. Producers work closely with the directors and other production staff. Wherever the idea comes from, it is the producer who decides to make this ‘great idea’ into a reality.

Casting Director- Casting directors work directly for studios and production companies. They organise auditions for actors for the different roles in the film. They work with the director, producer and writer to find out what the director(s) intend for the appearance of the characters/actors.

Director- Person who takes the screenplay and turns it into pictures and sounds, by directing the camera crew, sound, lighting, art and design, wardrobe etc. and actors, and the driving the post production process, as to what he or she wants on screen and looking to achieve that.

Film Finance- Film finance is an aspect of film production occurs during the development stage prior to the production of the film. This role is concerned with the budget of the film and how much profit they are likely to make. They find the budget the film gets and this is done before filming so they ensure they have enough money to create the film.

Camera Operator- There job is to operate the camera and all the equipment. They work closely alongside the director working on the visual aspect of the film. They also instruct actors about their positioning on the screen.

Editor- The editor works closely alongside the director creating the overall appearance of the film, making sure the runs correctly. They have a key role on the production checking the technical standards, the storyline and the actor’s performances.

Production Designer- Are responsible for the visual concept of a film, they identify a design style for sets, locations, graphics, props, lighting, camera angles and costumes, while working closely with director and producer.

Marketing- The action of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising. Film promotion generally includes press releases, advertising campaigns, merchandising and media, and interviews with the key people involved with the making of the film, like actors and directors.

Exhibition- Showing films in cinemas or on DVD. Media attention through opening nights and premieres. How the audience see the film: in cinemas, at home, on DVD, through

television, including premieres, the box office take in the opening weeks: audience reviews which includes those of the film critics, ordinary people, cinema runs; awards in festivals- BAFTA’S, Oscars