If you are only aware of the film world to the point of watching movies, you must assume that a single person, who is the producer, manages the overall production of the project. However, production is a while large-scaled department, which ensures the successful making of film projects. Numerous types of producers are involved in a single project, and line producer is the most important among them.
Who is a Line Producer?
The line producer is the person responsible for managing the finances, as well as the logistic of a film or television project. They are the most important unit of the production team and have to overlook each and every detail of the project from pre-production, production to post-production and, at times, distribution too. Successful completion of a project is impossible without line producers.
Let’s get into the details of this article and explore a brief insight into the roles and responsibilities of line producers.
Top 7 Responsibilities Line Producers Have to Fulfill
In the film industry, it is often believed that the line producers have to check and manage the finances from line to line, which has earned them the name of their position too. If you want to make a film and do not know where to start, you can hire a line producer, and they will arrange and fix all the issues. Before doing that, getting an insight into their roles and responsibilities is critical.
Here are some of the major responsibilities line producers have to fulfill to make film projects smooth and successful.
1. Break Down Script to Make Budget
The first and foremost responsibility of line producers is breaking down the project script to make a budget. For example, if you have got a script from a well-known writer, who wants you to pour all your savings into the project, you might face loss at the end. The line producers have the expertise in exploring the worth and value of the script and proposing the budget accordingly.
2. Hire Film Crew
The next responsibility of line producers is hiring the film crew. A film crew consists of more people who work behind the scene as compared to the ones working on the screen. The line producers are responsible for drafting the crew needs and hire them too. However, hiring an expert line producer is the key here, which makes many filmmakers consult production companies in Abu Dhabi and get the best professionals on board who sort out everything else.
3. Scout Shoot Locations
You cannot shoot films randomly but need a proper studio setup or location. Moreover, you cannot randomly reach some location and start shooting. Location scouting is extremely crucial to make the shooting process easier, as well as ensure everything appears scenic and has perfect cinematography. Scouting shoot locations and managing permits also fall in the responsibilities of line producers.
4. Secure and Manage Film Equipment
Having a simple mic and camera is not enough to shoot a professional video, let alone a film project. A long list of high-end equipment is required to make sure everything is being captured in high quality. You might need to invest in equipment or rent it according to your need. Line producers are the authority that looks after securing and managing film equipment.
5. Work With Department Heads
One of the basic responsibilities of line producers is working closely with other department heads, like the creative head, stylist, set designer, etc., to explore their budget and finance needs. The line producers have to explore the budget, needs, and requirements and approve them accordingly. It is safe to assume they have the biggest say in budget and finance-related matters.
6. Overlook Post Production
Another critical responsibility of line producers is overlooking the post-production of the project. It includes wrapping up the project, ensuring its editing, release preparation, and promotions. The line producers also take care of film distribution and make sure to play their part in delivering the project to the audiences and film fans.
7. Manage Delivery of Rentals
The last but most important responsibility of line producers is managing the delivery of rentals. A film project might need a huge list of unique items, which makes line producers go for renting. However, once the project is complete, they have to return everything. If your line producer is not responsible, it can cause a blow to your project. So, make sure to hire production companies in Abu Dhabi and let the trained professionals handle everything smoothly.
Are you looking to get a line producer on board?
After getting insight into the roles and responsibilities of line producers, you would have acknowledged how much they are necessary for your project. If you are looking to hire one, feel free to contact professional production houses and let them offer the best support to contribute to the success of your project.