Week 8 EOC: The Producer’s Most Important Role

When it comes down to the role of the producer, which producer are you speaking of. There can be several on any given project of a decent size production. There can be executive producers, producers, line producers, and associate producers. They all have there own roles.

• An executive producer is at the top of the production chain. They are usually in charge of handling the film’s financing and all the top decisions having to do with the actual production of the film, for example hiring the director, actors etc.
  

• A producer supervises and controls the project from conception to completion. The responsibilities range from hiring the cast and crew for all the technical aspects to the financial aspects.
  

• The line producer is more of a link between the set and the production office. This person deals with cast and crew and handles all the little issues in the film.

• Lastly, there is the associate producer. This is one of those titles that are just given to someone to get him or her to be a part of the project.
  

There are many elements to a producer’s role, all of which should be clearly defined. This is where the producer services agreement comes in. It should in detail explain what controls the production company maintains and what controls the producers are able to have. Maybe the producer needs verify that they are able to financially produce the film before they are hired and if they are hired, their work is contingent among the finances to support the film. Perhaps they are required to fulfill and types of engagements for the film. The role of the producer can be whatever it is crafted out to be in the agreement.