From pre-production to post-production and beyond, producers have their fingers in many pies to ensure the end result is up to the best possible standard.
One major aspect of film production includes casting the right actors for roles in a project. Producers can be described as being responsible for an entire film.
No pressure right? However, the process of casting does not fall directly on the shoulders of the producer.
The usual process involves casting directors being hired to hold auditions for certain roles. Producers then work in consultation with the casting directors to decide on who is right for a part.
A producer is either employed by the production company or works independently.
They plan and coordinate a range of aspects in film production including the selection of scripts, directing, editing, and arranging a project’s financing.
A producer will usually oversee the script’s development and lead a pitch once the script is complete to secure a “green light” or financial backing so production can begin.
Producers also have a hand in choosing the director and other important crew members.
The director usually makes creative decisions during filmmaking while the producer manages different logistics and business matters.
If a producer can not supervise an entire production, associate, assistant, or line producers are hired to oversee different aspects of the project.
The casting process usually follows this method:
A producer hires casting directors to hold auditions
Casting directors post the role’s breakdowns mainly online through sites such as castingnetworks.com
Acting agents see these breakdowns and pitch their clients to the casting directors
Some of the actors from these pitches are then invited by the casting director for an audition
The casting director will look over the auditions and choose whoever they think is right for the role
The chosen actors are asked for a callback to do another audition but in front of the producers
A lucky agent gets a call to be informed that one of their clients has got the part
This is the general process but it can differ depending on the circumstances. In general, however, the producer will have a final say on which actor is cast.
Why do actors want to be producers?
If you like to stick around for the whole duration of your favorite tv show, such as the ending credits, you may have noticed that many of the starring actors are credited as producers.
Many actors take on this role in movies too. At least one or two of the main actors of a tv show are also the executive producer but why is this so?
While many people would argue that it is entirely for the money, there are a range of possible answers as to why.
Therefore, becoming a producer can give them more control over the entire production. They can oversee critical factors that go into the production process and decide what the budget is spent on.
Most often than not, actors do not start off as producers in tv shows. They usually gain this accolade after a few seasons of a show once it has become popular.
Of course, as the show becomes more popular, the actor’s pay also rises.
Most actors seldom make big bucks so the allure to sign a long-term contract that involves producing duties for more money is hard to ignore.
On the other hand, studios and producers can often feel that an actor has earned his or her producing credits due to their creativity on the project.
Whether an actor has been part of the creative team, has a production company that backs a project, or just wants the extra money of being a producer, the credit alone is something many actors thrive for.
