Production roles explained
If you’ve ever paid attention to a film’s credits, you will have noticed that the word producer comes up a lot in various versions. And if you’re like me, you’ve wondered what exactly those people do. Below you will find info on all the major producer roles:
Executive Producer - Usually credit given to someone who invested their own money into the project. They may also be involved in the day to day creative workings of a film by providing guidance but are not as involved as the producer.
Producer - The person in charge of the production from start to finish. The producer is in charge of raising funds, hiring people, getting the film distributed, etc. They are involved in every phase of the film’s process. Producers are also involved in the creative process of the film.
Co-Producer - Generally reports to the producer and is more involved in the day-to-day production than an Executive Producer. Can also be a person who provided funding for the film.
Associate Producer - Can be a representative of the Producer, who may share financial, creative, or administrative responsibilities. Often, a title granted as a courtesy or to one who made a major financial or creative contribution to the production.
Production Director - A representative of the film company assigned to the set and given the authority to act in behalf of the senior production team members.
Administrative Producer - Reports to the Board of Directors. Freelancers are employed by the Administrative Producer for specific tasks such as press and publicity activities, design, production management, etc.
Production Manager - The production manager supervises the physical aspects of a production. They have no creative input at all. Usually they will be in charge of personnel, budget, and scheduling. It is their responsibility to make sure the film is on schedule and within budget.
Line Producer - A line producer usually manages the budget of a film. They often also manage the day to day physical aspects of the film production, a role similar to the unit production manager. A line producer may also hire key members of the crew, negotiate deals with vendors, and is considered the head of production on the set.
Unit Manager - Same role as the production manager except they are in charge of the secondary shooting unit.
Production Coordinator - The PC is responsible for various things including hiring crew members, booking talent, and renting equipment.
Production Assistant - A production assistant, usually referred to as a PA, assists the first assistant director. They also assist with general office tasks.
Production Accountant - The production accountant assists the production manager and line producer in keeping track of the film’s budget. The production accountant, together with his or her various assistants, are often considered to be a separate department.
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