Contents
Chapter One—Schedule and Budget Basics
What is Production Management?
The Schedule and Budget Relationship
Who Manages the Schedule and Budget
A Manual and Computer Approach
End Uses of the Schedule and Budget
Chapter Two—Identifying Resources: The Breakdown
Is There One Way to Breakdown a Script?
Relationship of Script and Breakdown
Screenplay Software and Online Collaboration Tools
Set Up Your System: Software, Colors, Numbers
The Process of Breaking Down a Script
Transfer Information to Breakdown Forms
Chapter Three—Organizing Resources: The Schedule
Your System: Workflow and Consistency
The Process: Transfer Breakdown Information Into Schedule
A. Fill Out the Production Information
B. Transfer and Verify Information to a Breakdown Sheet in the Software, One Scene at a Time
Arrange Schedule for Maximum Efficiency
Factors Impacting the Schedule
Chapter Four—Pricing Resources: The Budget
Step 1. Identify and Obtain Prices
Above the Line: Creative and Development Costs
Below the Line: Post Production
Below the Line: Other Expenses
Chapter Five—Helpful Scheduling and Budgeting Tips
Evolution of the Schedule and Budget
Priorities, Prices, and Deal Making
Publicity, Marketing and Film Festivals
Chapter Six—Managing Resources
Relationship Between Script, Schedule and Budget
Production Accountant, AD, and Line Producer
The First Assistant Director (AKA AD) Runs the Set
The Line Producer Runs the Production Office
Days Off, Turnaround, Meal Times
Chapter Seven—Special Considerations
Don’t Wait to Budget (Time and Cash) for Marketing and Distribution
Shorts, Web Videos, and Webisodes
Educational and Corporate Film
Chapter Eight—Additional Topics You are Bound to Encounter