All films go through stages on their journey to the big screen. There are seven essential stages that they move through from an idea to the box office. Continue reading to learn about the seven stages of film production.
- Development
The first stage of film production is development. It can start in several different ways, but usually it begins with a script. It could be a script that has already been written, a book, or the outline of a story. Directors or writers might pitch the idea to a producer, but the beginning is coming up with the script.
- Pre-Production
During this next stage, they decide on how they will produce the film. This is a planning phase, and it involves coming up with the vision for how the project will unfold.
There are no cameras in this phase, but they will decide the location for shooting and they will make casting plans. In addition, the producer will hire a Production Manager or a Line manager to make a schedule and a budget and finish the planning for the film.
- Production
When they reach the production stage, they need to make sure that they have an ongoing plan that outlines the daily shoot. They try to stay on schedule, and they need to pay close attention. During this stage, communication is essential.
They need to coordinate the location, the set, the front office, the production company, and the distributors. All of the parties involved in the film need updates and to stay on schedule.
- Principal Photography
This is the most expensive phase of production. The actor, director, and crew are all there, and the camera starts rolling. There are costs involved in special effects scenes, props, and more. The entire process before now was designed to make sure that this stage moves along without hitches, and the primary goal is to stay on schedule and on budget.
- Wrap
The wrap comes when the shooting ends. They dismantle the set and clear out of the location. They prepare to return things to the suppliers and keep records of everything.
- Post-Production
Although this is the stage after the film is shot, the two stages can overlap. The team reviews the footage and assembles the movie. Visual effects, music, sound, and more are added. They create the delivery elements and lock the film.
- Distribution
During this stage, the film is distributed. This is when the producers will make their money, and they spend all of their time and energy on getting the best distribution deals for the film.