Even though the words are often used interchangeably, the work done by the producing team is vastly different from that of the production team. The producing team is part of the film at every stage, while the production team comes into the picture (pun intended!) at a later stage. If you’re confused about which route to take, then you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we give you clarity on just what it is that each of these teams actually do.

The Producing Team

Often simply thought of as the team that bankrolls the film, the producing team does a whole lot more than that. The producing team comprises of the producers, who are involved in all phases of the film’s development, from the ideation stage to the post-production and distribution stage. Their very first job is buying and developing ideas that will form the script. Once the script is in order, they will look for funding to finance the film. A key part of their duties is to ensure that the film stays within the budget and on schedule. They also have the final call on the director and the actors that will be attached to the film. Once the film moves into the post-production stage, they have considerable influence in matters of editing, music composition, sound design, visual effects and colour grading. The final cut of the film needs the producing team’s approval. To put it briefly, the producing team oversees the entire project from day one, right through pre-production, production and post-production, while also being embroiled in the advertising and distribution of the film.


The Production Team

The production team, on the other hand, handles the logistics of the film. They’re often picked out and put in place by the producing team and brought in at the pre-production stage. They are involved in the technical aspects of the film such as camera rentals, catering, accommodation etc. for the cast and crew. The key players in the production team are:

i) Production Manager The production manager supervises the logistics of the production including supervising personnel, technology, budget, and scheduling.

ii) Production Coordinator They are responsible for hiring the crew, renting equipment, and booking extras.

iii) Production Secretary They provide administrative assistance to the production coordinator and production manager.

iv) Production Accountant They report to the producing team and manage the day-to-day finances of film production.

v) Post-production Supervisor During the post-production process, they maintain clarity of information and open channels of communication between the producer, editor, supervising sound editor, the facilities companies (such as film labs, CGI studios) and the Production Accountant.

vi) First Assistant Director They assist the production manager and director and oversee day-to-day management of the cast and crew scheduling, equipment, script, and the set.

vii) Script Supervisor They must ensure that there is continuity in the filming process, as shown in the script. They must keep track of any deviations between what was filmed and what appeared in the script.

viii) Stunt Coordinator The stunt coordinator will arrange for the casting and execution of the stunt, working in tandem with the Director.

In short, the producing team actually produces the film being largely responsible for the financing while the production film manages the film.

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