The Filmmaking Process

There are several stages to making a film (I will use the terms film and movie interchangeably):  Development, Pre-Production, Production, Post Production, and Distribution.

Development

The Development stage is crucial.    It’s where the script is purchased and polished and funds are raised.  This is where you find out if anyone thinks making this movie is a good idea. .In independent filmmaking (those not attached to a studio) there are a couple ways to raise money.

The most common way is to find investors who think this film would be a financial benefit for them.  As a side note, very few independent films actually make a profit.  Some investors recoup much of their money back through tax incentives and other ways so making a profit is not the big issue for them.  For other investors, they expect to recoup their investment with interest.

Another way a film may raise money is through donations.  A film may not expect to make any money or it may be artistic or educational in nature.  If so, it can either become its own 501 c 3 or apply for fiscal sponsorship through an arts organization that is a 501 c 3.  If it is fiscally sponsored then donations may be tax deductible.

A film that is not a non-profit can also raise money through gifts from family and friends.

Pre-Production

Pre-Production is where paperwork is done, locations are secured, actors are auditioned, crew is hired. 

Production

This is the fun part.  Everyone shows up to the location and the scenes are shot.  Scenes are not shot in chronological order.  Usually all the scenes for one location are shot at one time.  Then, everyone moves to the next location to shoot those scenes. 

Post Production 

After the scenes are shot they need to be assembled into the movie.  Music is added.  Color-correction, special effects, audio, and anything else needed to make the movie look good is done.  Titles and credits are added.

Distribution

This is where the movie, hopefully, finds its audience.  Screenings are completed.  Tickets and DVDs are sold,.  The film is submitted to festivals.  Posted on the web.  Filmmakers usually try to find a distributor to do this but many independent filmmakers turn to self-distribution.