Planning: Pre-Production Paperwork - Miss Begum

Pre-Production Paperwork

Introduction:

Pre-production paperwork had to be produced before we started to film our thriller opening. We were legally obliged to do so and it will be very helpful during the filming process. The pre production paperwork consisted of a production schedule, camera shot list, location recce, location release form, risk assessment and client release form. These documents must have been completed as not only did it make filming more efficient, we needed the correct permissions to film in certain places and to prepare for and prevent any risks that may occur. The paperwork and copies of it had to be distributed amongst the cast, depending on whom it would benefit. The production schedule and location recce were given to the cast, as well as the client release form which had to be signed by each of them, the risk assessment was given to all crew members to help eliminate any risks. The director, producer and camera operator all held onto copies of the shot list to assist while filming. The forms were all produced by different crew members depending on who was more suited to which part of the paperwork.

Production Schedule:

The production schedule summarised what was going to happen during the filming process as well as when, who is involved, which scene is being shot and what equipment and props were being used. The production schedule would greatly benefit the cast and crew as they were all given a very clear idea of how the production would be made.

Location Recce:

Location recce contained information about where the filming will take place, directions on how to get there, why it is a good place to film and how it is relevant. This information will be distributed to and will be useful to all of the cast members so it will be easy for them to commute to the place where we are filming. Photos of the areas have also been included to assist.

Location Release form:

The location release form is a legal document that discussed the terms and conditions for the people that have granted us permission to film in a particular location, this form will be given to the local authorities if asked for. Also can be given to the police if they believe we are filming on the wrong grounds. To further solidify our ability to film without any delays or problems, I contacted my local council on behalf of Jager Productions to request permission to film in the cemetery, as this could have been problematic if people did not agree with this or if it breached any legalities.

Client release form:

The client release form is a legal document stating the terms and conditions that may concern any cast member. It contains all information and legalities that concern the cast members and is signed by them to show that they are aware of the fact they will not be payed for this production and what is expected of them.

Risk Assessment:

The risk assessment is another legal document which needed to be filled in by the appropriate crew member and be distributed to all the crew members as they would be dealing with the risks. The assessment contains information on what risks could be there as well as how to deal with them. This document is important as it would speed up the filming process as well as help avoid risks which may damage production value.

Advantages of Pre-production paperwork:

• Pre production paperwork helps legitimise our production as it completes any legal documents that need to be and distributes them.
• Assists the cast and crew to complete the production quickly and efficiently as the production has a deadline.
• It analyses risks and how to confront them if they do occur, also helping with filming times.
• It organises the crew and cast well, as well as informs them on the locations where we will be filming.
• Problems and disagreements can be settled early due to the pre production paperwork which can also greatly help the production time and value.