Film making is the process of creating a story in motion for cinema or television. The filmmaker is the visionary of the film being made. A filmmaker has a varied role to play, starting from conceptualization of the idea to scriptwriting, casting, editing, screening, etc. They are the backbone of the film and work behind the scene. Often the term filmmaker is used in synonyms with the Director, however, all filmmakers can be directors but not all directors are filmmakers. The filmmaker is supposed to be imaginative, multitalented, and a skillful individual.

Career Roles & Responsibilities

Scripting

Filmmakers can get a script in a variety of ways. They can write one themselves based on an original idea, purchase one from a screenwriter, commission a writer to flesh out an idea or use whatever tools are necessary to create an adaptation of another product, such as a book or play. Regardless of how they get the script, filmmakers decide on how to best convey a story or idea to a mass audience through the film medium.

Budgeting

Using the script and the basic ideas for the movie, filmmakers must come up with an estimated budget for the film. They need to be able to assess what it will take to turn the script into a movie, which can mean everything from renting equipment and studio space to paying actors and crews. When they have a detailed idea of the budget, they can look for financial backing from others or tap into their own coffers for the funding. Filmmakers ultimately are accountable to the entities that provide the funding.

Casting

Once the budget is in place, filmmakers go about the process of assembling everything they need, starting with the cast. Filmmakers put out ads or contact actors, hold auditions and ultimately decide who gets to play what role. They work closely with these actors throughout the making of the movie, giving them guidance on playing their roles.

Hiring

It is also necessary to assemble the rest of the crew. Filmmakers are responsible for hiring a camera crew, makeup artists, choreographers, stunt people, editors, film scorers, and anyone else needed in the process of making the film. The crew, like the cast, is under the direct supervision of the filmmaker.

Pre-Production

During pre-production, filmmakers coordinate with all the other relevant parties to make sure that everything is in order for shooting. Shooting locations are selected, rehearsals are held, props are purchased, and the shooting schedule is established. The purpose of this stage is to prepare as thoroughly as possible for the actual shooting of the movie.

Production

The production phase is when the film is actually shot. Filmmakers closely oversee this process, coaching the actors and the crew and making sure that everything is done according to budget, schedule, and the intended style of the film. During production, filmmakers actively manage the set, ensuring that the shots are taken properly.

Post-Production

In post-production, filmmakers oversee the process of editing the raw footage into a coherent whole. The film gets touched up here in many ways, such as visual editing and the addition of music and other effects. The filmmakers essentially manage the technical crew during this stage and work with them to create the desired finished product.

Release

Filmmakers also are responsible for managing the release of the finished product. Sometimes screenings will be held for limited audiences. It is the job of filmmakers to coordinate advertising and public relations for the movie, set a release date, and establish a screening schedule once the film is released to the general public.

Career Education Path Summary

How to Become a Filmmaker