Hello,
I'm graduating from high school this year, and really want to pursue a career as a movie producer. I have searched the internet trying to find any information on this, but all I got were numerous definitions on what a producer actually is (granted this did help a lot, as it just showed that I wanted to become a producer more). I hope someone can help me out, what exactly are the steps to becoming one?
Do I first need to go to film school? If so, which are the best schools/programs I should apply to?
In an industry that is fuelled by being well connected and networking, I realize that i have no connections at all, a big fat zero in this department. How can I increase this (should I become a runner for no pay (just for work experience) and attend film festivals?)
What is the average pay and how quick is the progression up the ladder?
I realize I have a ton of question, if anyone can just answer one question I would really appreciate it as I really don't have anyone else to turn to for advice. Thank you.
Normally a producer is the one to fork out the cash. Do you have any cash?
--QD Jones
--QD Jones
You?re incorrect, Knotty. The producer is rarely the person putting up the cash. The producer is often the person who looks for the funding, but rarely puts up any money. Very often the producer is a person hired to manage the project.
Artamis; like every aspect of the moviemaking process the best way to pursue a career is to just start making movies. I think film school is a waste of time - others swear by it, if you?re interested in film school there is an excellent section on them right here on filmmaking.net. Check the main page under ?directory? and click on ?Film Schools?
You?re right, the industry is fueled by connections and networking. Producing a couple of short films and attending film festivals is a great way to make connections and network. Starting as a PA on a movie (even a small low budget one) is a great way to make connections and network.
Also as with every aspect of the moviemaking process there is no ?standard? pay. The unions and guilds set a minimum, but you would be dealing with that for a while. And how fast you progress depends on you and you alone. Work hard, make the right connections, network and make a couple of movies that make a profit and you?ll progress fast.
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)
I'd definately recommend the higher education route. I have a friend who's well on her way to being a producer, and she's done it through the contacts she made while at university. I agree that film festivals, etc... are also a good way to make contacts too, but you're lesws likey to remain in contact with casual acquaintences than you are with the tutors, friends and industry people you meet in an educational environment. Just my humble opinion, though. Remember, being a producer is all about buttering people up, so you're really got to come through as a ridiculously confident, perhaps even cocky character that people remember.
You'll probably have to start with an internship, as almost everybody does in this industry, but choose it well, and don't get exploited! If you feel you're being completely used and you're not getting anything from it, then walk... that's my advice anyhoo! 🙂
