Emma Nicholas Essays (2456 words) - , Term Papers

Emma Nicholas Professor Fortunato FMP 201 26 April 2013 Final Exam Question One: Hollywood is crowded with a gargantuan amount of films. Each of these films underwent a tumultuous process to become the final product now being shown on the big screen. Often heedless, the average film-uneducated viewer views the film as the whole in which it is being presented. Dive behind the red velvet curtain, taking a peek into the strenuous world of cinema. It is best to "write what you come to know" (Development). This has the tendency to hold as a far more accurate statement. One should commence "with a strong idea inspired by actual events, literature, [or] personal experiences" (Tomaric 3). Though there are other options to exhaust such as already existing sources. In order to use already developed sources or ideas, one must secure the rights. Procuring the rights from the author of a previous work or an individual whose story is inspirational enables the user to proceed with their vision. When the work is either an original creation or acquired rights; a proof of Chain of Title is in order to obtain insurance and distribution (Development). Following a secured Chain of Title happens to the blueprint for the entire film, the script. A script is crafted by a creative screenwriter, who lays out the script in a "format regulated by tradition not law" (Development). Oddly enough, the screenwriter may also be a "hyphenate" in which case they are also producer and director for the film. As the idea has developed from a mental thought to a physical script, then begins the hiring process. The shot list and budget determine what crew positions are needed to fill on set. Perhaps it is wise to begin with hiring a producer, whom "makes the overall project take shape" (Who). In charge of the artistic vision of the film is the director who "translates and visually gives life to the screenplay" (Who). Preceding these, hire the director of photography, production designer and unit production manager. In which case, grant these position holders the ability to appoint department heads. Making the job easier on the individual heading the film, these department heads will hire subordinate crew members, who must be approved by the directors themselves. Trailing this process, crew members are required to sign a crew deal memo outlining the terms of their employment (Tomaric). With employees comes paychecks and these paychecks add a crucial part in the budgeting. Beginning with selecting a business formula, it must be established whether the film is for profit or art (Tomaric). Collaborate with a line producer to develop a budget to show investors. If using investors on a film, there lies the "rule of three: meet and know your investors personally." Shape the budget by shuffling scenes, reducing the numbers of shooting days, tightening actors' schedules and reducing camera set-ups. Determine union payment guidelines and restrictions concerning the actors and crew. Develop a business plan that includes the budget, script, attached actors and key crew positions. Approach investors to raise money for the project. Form a company and open a bank account. With budget intact, begins pre-production. And where will the film be shot? First, hire a location scout who knows the local area. It is imperative to capture pictures of every location using the panoramic technique. A local film commission sometimes has panoramic shots of popular locations. Location scouting needs to occur early in order for "tech scouts" to choose the location (Pre-production). Secure the location by contract, specifying the conditions upon arrival and return. Inquire the exact price of location, the days/hours it will be used. And after using the location were the ending conditions the same or does it need to be restored to its original condition. Locations are finalized, next step, putting them to good use. At the start of production each morning coffee and breakfast are set-up before call-time. The set location is unlocked and secured. Cast and crew begin arriving based on their call times. Frist assistant director walks everyone through the set before the crew begins unloading equipment in designated areas. Make-up and hair departments set-up and begin prepping the actors. Then there is a meeting with the entire cast and crew to review the scenes