In this post, we will be talking about independent filmmakers who take charge of almost all the aspects of the film, production. Because the role of the filmmaker on a film set is very diverse to be summarized in one post, we will cover here the very general duties of the independent film director/producer.
As an example of the main responsibilities of independent filmmakers, we had a small chat with Leo, an independent filmmaker who is proud to “write, produce, direct, film, and act” in his projects.
The Duties of a Filmmaker on a Film Set
A filmmaker is responsible for making, leading, and producing a movie. He/she is the producer, the leader, and the creative in any movie.
Every stage of the production is their responsibility; as well as choosing the best actors and actresses, working from behind-the-scenes, and managing the financial end of the production.
A filmmaker is also a leader who can lead a large group of actors and actresses on a film set, manage all the responsibilities and stress to make the production successful.
Moreover, shots, scenes and script are all done and written by the filmmaker.
After watching a successful movie, many questions pop up in our brains. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right answers for them until we live the same process.
What are the steps to have a successful movie?
Questions like how much work it took, how much the payment of the actors or even what the budget was?
As known, the film starts with an idea in someone’s brain (the filmmaker). As a result, the idea that popped up will be the key to start the whole project.
Most of the time, the idea appears unexpectedly. However the filmmaker always carries his/her phone or notebook, so they do not forget it. After that, the whole team will receive a written script form. Meanwhile, the crew will check the script to know exactly what is their role.
However, a filmmaker who might not be great with writing the dialogue should let his/her actors improvise and this may result in a very successful dialogue.
In addition to that, a filmmaker always must prepare a storyboard that represents those shots he is willing to film. So, he/she can imagine how he/she wants to shoot the scene on the film set.
Assembling the team is both exciting and nerve-wracking. It is a very important step, and it needs time to find and choose the right people that fit the film.
As for the crew members, it’s better to see some past work or showreels or any other example if possible.
Auditions are a must to choose actors and actresses who are going to play the role.
When all the above steps are done, a filmmaker should think about the locations that work perfectly with the scenes.
When all the mentioned procedures above are done, the filming starts. The filmmaker should be flexible with time in case of any changes or problems.
And finally, comes postproduction where you edit all your work, add sound effects, visual effects, color correction, and music. This step needs hardworking and a lot of time.
An interview with “Leo Field” About The Role of the Filmmaker On A Film Set
An interview was done with the filmmaker “Leo Field” who is 20 years old, studied filmmaking for three years in a college. Subsequently, he is the owner of the organization of Field Films Productions.
He has produced different genres such as drama, horror, and documentaries, and he directs and writes his own movies. Leo Field stated that he taught himself how to film. He used to watch short films on YouTube and take notes about the camera angles and music they use. It was all fun for him, he walks at midnight with soundtracks of films in his ears so he can imagine or think of some ideas and write it down in his phone.
Leo field funds his own movies and some movies did not need any money, making them low budget films. He is a filmmaker who writes, produce, edit, direct and market his movies all alone.
Leo publishes his films on YouTube, although he entered his films into festivals that are free entry and festivals such as film free but mainly, he shares them online.
Leo Field advised filmmakers not to feel disheartened if their film didn’t make it or get accepted, since the whole experience of entering a festival is exciting and fun and important for the filmmaker.
Passion and consistency are key for independent filmmakers, especially if still no team besides the filmmaker. This what Leo Field thinks after his experience especially the first that will be always your favorite and the reason behind your continuous hardworking.
Projects by Leo Field:
You can follow Leo on Instagram to stay updated with his new work.
Read more about Scriptwriting and filmmaking studies on AVFilmschool.
