THE ROLE OF A PRODUCER
Producers play an essential role in the television and film industry. A producer will oversee every aspect of a project’s production from beginning to completion and are also often involved in the marketing and distribution processes. Producers are therefore accountable for the success of the finished film. Their key responsibilities are to bring together and approve the whole production team and create an environment where the talents of both the cast and crew can thrive.
The Producer is often the first person to get involved in a project and, in pre-production, the producers are the ones who bring together the key members of the creative team. This includes the Director, Cinematographer and Production Designer as well as key cast members. During this pre-production stage, they also help the Executive Producers to raise money for the production.
Additionally, producers approve locations, studio hire, the final shooting script, production schedule and budget.
Once the film is in production, producers are responsible for ensuring that the operation of the team is smooth and efficient. Producers are also in constant communication and consultation with the Director and other key creative crew, both on and off set. Producers approve all script changes and are the first point of contact for all production partners, investors and distributors.
Producers also work closely with the directors and other production staff on a shoot and during post production. As the Producer is in charge of arranging the funding for each project, they are therefore also responsible for keeping the production within the allocated budget. They will also deal with the finance and distribution companies in planning the marketing and distribution of the finished film.
Producers have a legal responsibility, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, to prepare health and safety procedures for the workplace. The Producer's ultimate responsibility is to the production company and the Executive Producers.
In theory, the producer deals with all the practical and political aspects of keeping a project running smoothly, so that the director and the rest of the team can concentrate on the creative aspects.
BARRIE M. OSBORNE
Barrie M. Osborne is a film producer, executive producer and production manager born on February 7, 1944 in New York City, USA. He produced his first film back in 1976 and is still producing today aged 71. During this time he has produced and executively producer over thirty films.
Osborne is best known for his production of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) and The Matrix (1999). Some of his other works include; The Great Gatsby (Executive Producer), The Last Place on Earth and personal favourite; Face/Off.
An interesting description of the role and responsibilities of the Producer, however I would have liked to know some more about Barrie, what he did before he was a Producer? How did he start? Otherwise a good piece.
ReplyDeleteAhh okay sorry, I thought the actual role was meant to be the focus, and the producer themselves was meant to act as a sort of example or evidence to support your findings.
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