What does a line producer do?

Question

What does a line producer do?

Answer 1

I am glad you asked. I just Line Produced a movie in Chicago called "Last Stop", a SAG Ultra-Low budget, but still a lot of fun.

Line Producers read a script, mock up a schedule, and then create a budget based upon the schedule and inherent logistics. This means breaking down what size of crew (and precisely what sort of crew) are going to be needed, and how much each of them is going to make, as well as how much is to be spent on cast, locations, equipment, ad infinitum. They are then in charge of hiring all the crew (the creative crew is hired in conjunction with the director), and negotiating those deal memos (not just weekly wage, but other terms such as a kit fee, car hire, gas stipend, pre-production food stipend, et al), negotiating with vendors for all the eqpt, and on and on.

They are ultimately responsible for creating a budget that doesn't go over, and gets the producers and director the best bang for their buck. Everything is their responsibility, even though they may not do everything themselves, they are in charge of deciding what is needed and hiring the person to do it. For instance, you'll have a casting agent, but if it's a background heavy piece you may hire an Extras Casting agent as well. If the director comes to you and says he wants to hire a Technocrane for a shot, you look at the budget and decide what can go in place of this, or whether you want to dip into your contingency (which should be 10% until you start shooting). It's a job that requires a lot of experience, skill and negotiating prowess.

Hope that answers the qu.

Answer 2

A line producer is a key member of the production team for a motion picture. Typically, a line producer manages the budget of a motion picture. Alternatively, or in addition, they may manage the day to day physical aspects of the film production, serving a role similar to the unit production manager.

Answer 3

When in doubt, Wiki!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Line_Produc...

Enjoy!