Production management has been my most interesting class this semester, it was different for my other classes in so many ways, I could honestly say that this class me the most about the filmmaking process since I started this degree.

I think I have a clear understanding of what a producer does and how important this job is in the filmmaking business.

I have learned how difficult I could be at times to work with some people, our project has clearly illustrated some of the problems one could face as a produces, which brings me to what I learned about the importance of being a leader. I now truly understand the meaning of the phrase with great power comes great responsibility.

Working with Brook is not easy, he is one twisted unpredictable individual and his methods are sometimes extreme when it come to achieving his goals but it was fun, fo real!!!, it was a good experience and I look forward to working with brook again.

Personally I think I should try to develop a more professional attitude when it come to working with my colleges in some cases, it nice to have a good vibe on a set but at the same time the intent is to get the work done and sometimes I find it difficult especially when persons are older and more experienced than I am I guess I feel a bit in adequate to be issuing orders, but as I said this is only in some cases.

Still it’s an issue I will definitely deal with.

Now about the course, it started with contracts, which I think I handled, ok, mainly because of my past and dealing with things of this sort. Then it was breaking downing a script, and extracting the information needed to bring the literature to life. I must say this was one of the most exciting moment for me taking words and visualizing actions, location, and props that would effective communicate the meaning effectively. The vwhole process just seeming so to bring about a sort of catharsis.

One very important skill that I am extremely grateful for is the know how to create a proper business proposal, which will important even if film production n isn’t involved.

In concluding I think this course was amazing and it has fully equipped me with the knowledge need to produce my own films and possible producing professionally.

For this I thank you class , for your contribution to my development..

Mek way production first film ‘’BAKKOO” has been a success in my opinion, the rod was a difficult one but endured none the less.

From day on this project started off on a bumpy road, seeing that my co producer and my self could not see eye to eye on the form this project was to take however, we reconciled our differences and continued to a common goal.

The second obstacle was selecting a director, which turned to be most difficult task for us, naturally as a producer one must acquire the best production value for the available capital, and even though we had no money we still attempted to achieve the highest production value. However our first choice for a director was not to gracious in my opinion, having accepted the offer to direct this film our director did not act as one should with handling of the project so we were forced to move on to a new direction.

A decision which brought about a string of problems, however we went a head and completed the project.

Self y Course Evaluation

Okey dokey so here goes... Self Evaluation: I believe that I understand the dicipline of what being a producer really entails. With that being said...I believe that the course 'Production Management' was 100% effective in fully explaining the dicipline of a producer. No complaints there.

Finally, since i've only blogged 6 times in total out of 10 I would rate myself 5/10.
Ans in terms of class attendance out 0f 10, i'd rate my attendance as 8/10. I was late once (last week friday) and absent about 3 or 4 times and no more.

In terms of being a leader, manager; well, the leadership of my project was equally shared and divided amongst my two other collegues so I did not have complete leadership or authority over what happened or did not happen in the different phases of our production. However....I would say that out of 10....as playing the role of a producer only based on my own individual performance within this entire production, I would give myself an 8/10. I can honestly say that I personally enjoyed being a producer; yes there are some things that you can't 100% control because the leadership role has been shared, but luckily getting along with my other collegues (Shawn and Rachel....WOOOT!!!) was no problem what so ever. Good chemistry i'd say.

I would say that I was also dedicated to our production as I was very estatic about the planning of the production (pre) and the actual production and also for the post-production phase. It has been good energy all the way and it hasn't died down or even come close to going away. Time management for me was no issue because from the moment I had something to do concerning our production i'd come right home and get on this computer and get right at it...the amount of emails i sent to my team with all the info necessary and queries and questions that I needed answered was a high volume. So i'd can honestly and proudly say that out of 10 i'd give myself full marks (10) for time managment, because not once did I slack up or say...'i'd do this tomorrow'. I was too hyped up from the start to say i'd put this for later.

In terms of managing and handling the tasks given....as was said before, I did not shirk work when given and took it quite seriously. I admit however, I was the one who was issued the tasks of dealing with the legal aspect of this project (contracts)...those dreadful, time consuming, things that make things rather boring for a moment...but hey....it's a dirty job and someone's gotta do it, right? Initally the problem with the contracts I gathered was that they were too long and complicated (for some of them) and some of the terms were a little out of the ordinary (e.g: the one with the director of photography agreement where it stated about not indulging on drinking alcholic beverages on set during production, or making any decisions while under the influence of alcohol)..yup...that one was classic wasn't it? Oops!! But after the case study in class, once again, I instantly got onto the computer and got to work on those babies and KISSed (Keep It Simple Stupid). So for me personally out of 10 I would give the task that I did and it's effectiveness an 8/10. Why? Contracts were too long to begin with, as a producer I should have recognized that instantly, and even thought I understood the terms and conditions within these contracts that dosent mean that someone else would, so I should have considered that and kept them in the simplest and shortest form.

I'd rate my overall performance in my production Project I.A.N as an 8/10. Since this was my first time ever doing something like this....I thought i handled myself pretty well and carried myself in a professional manner and took my tasks seriously. I took off 2 marks because I always believe that there is room for improvement and if I was to be given an oppertunity to produce again, dosen't matter if i'm in a group or on my own, i'll try to do even better next time. But I believe that my performance was quite satisfactory. As i like to say...I can't complain about anything.

In conclusion, this course really opened my mind to the real meaning of what being a producer is. I taught me how responsible you have to be and that being under pressure would only keep you down, bcause producing is alot of work....no doubt.....it really is indeed and honestly, there's really no time for being in a sour skittle mood. If you plan you things according to schedule then it should be in a senese smooth sailing and if things still don't go according to your perfect plan, always make sure that you have a plan B, C, D, E, F, or G...sometimes even a plan H, or I (okay I could go on, but you get the idea). But since this course is so much work for just one semester, I believe that it should be divided into Production Management 1 and 2. Prod M 1 could be a 2nd year semester 1 course while Prod M 2 could be a 2nd year 2nd semester course. The first one should to ground the basics of what a producer, contracts, legal aspects of planning a production and so on really are (Theroy) and should have a written exam as well as a mid term and regular assignments and the 2nd Prod M should allow students to prove that they fully grasp the meaning of what a producer is all about and go out there and produce some films at least 2 for this semester, and there shouldn't be an exam for that semester either. It's just an idea that may very well work. Based on my experience in this course i'd give it a (9/10). Why? I learnt soooo much about producing in just one single semester, but there is room for improvement because I feel there was so much to learn and plan but would have loved to fully dedicate one semester to only learning about producing (theroy) and an entire semester to only producing (Practical). This course rocked though....I can't complain at all.

P.S: Forgive me if there are any typos or mis spelt words or common letters where there should be capital letters or missing puncation marks...I have my pet peeves about that type of stuff and I really hope that I blogged in standard English. I was typing somewhat fast (typos don't really cut it for me). Okay that's about it. Cheers!!!

Producers' self critique

The following is an internal review and evaluation of the group Mek Way Productions as it relates to this semester's film project.

Proposal/business plan -

The concept, script, target audience, marketing plan,financial scenario, etc, were pointed out from early on in our proposal. 15/15


Legal -

All paperwork relating to entity formation, assignment of rights, employment of cast and crew, and music composition was created and modified where necessary. 15/15


Script breakdown & Scheduling -

All scenes of the script were broken down according to their elements using Celtx. All required props were noted. A production timeline was created using actors' availability and our course timetable. We failed, however, to make a shot schedule for the day of the actual shoot. 12/15


Budget & cashflow -

Sourcing props, location use, transportation of special equipment, and most of the costuming was done for free, allowing us to direct our funds towards catering for cast and crew. Where we fell down is in allowing the days of shooting to run into an extra day, which means more catering is required. 10/15


Post production -

Final product not achieved as yet. Some editing has been done to what has been already shot. Score N/A


Production style -

The members of Mek Way Productions took full responsibility in bringing together the elements needed to create the film. They handled all difficulties that arose prior to and on the day of shooting. They did not leave until the shooting was wrapped up and equipment put away and accounted for.

The fruition of the group's vision is still on track. Considering the meagre funds available, production value is high. Industry standard HD has been used in filming. Dolly and track have been used for some scenes. Actors' delivery was excellent and it would appear we made a very good decision in casting, despite the director's misgivings and alternate suggestions.

While we anticipate that the film will be finished on time, the budget has been altered to accomodate an extra day of filming that was not previously planned. This is due to our failure to control the director/cinematographer on the first day of shooting. While operating the dolly and lights required time-consuming co-ordination and practice, we believe that too much time was wasted in shooting scenes. The delayed start did not help matters any either. Efficiency will be top priority in the next shoot and plans are already being made to achieve this. 10/15

.....................................................................................

Elliott's Individual Scores


Journal -

I failed to journal every week and only have 7 or 8 posts... not all having to do with the progress of the production either. 5/15


Attendance -

I was present for all classes and on time. 10/10

Hello Class,

Thank you all for a wonderful course. It was a privelege to teach you and hope that you all go on to become amazing Producers, alongside all the other amazing things you will do in your lives.
Pleas take the time to blog your evaluation of the course (can be in point form), and your self-evaluation. It doesn't have to be long, but  try to do it while this mornings class is fresh in your mind.

Next week we won't have classes. This is so that you can use the time to complete your projects. You will probably have to put in time outside of class to do so. Please touch base with me at the end of next week to let me know how are you are getting on.  Your mark will be based on your class work done to date, as per the course outline.

Please don't hesitate to let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
A bientot
FA

Today's Shoot

I can't help but post just hours after our shoot today. I am so hyped up right now that I actually feel like rewinding the day from the start and doing it all over again. Today's shoot was like caffiene running through my veins (and the thing is I don't drink coffee)....I'm so seriously hyped up about it and so very happy that today went well. Special thanks to Brook-Elliot, Akil and Akley for their involvement with Project I.A.N. They did not have to be there but they were kind enough to offer their much needed services in aiding SNR Productions with our production today. So on the behalf of Shawn, Rachel and me (Nahshonda) (i'm making this statement on the behalf of the others because i'm sure they appreciate your help) we want to say Thank You. Also special thanks to the creative vision of our Director Frances Anne Solomon and our Director of Photography Mahmood Patel. Based on observation these two work really well together as a fantabulous team....(yes i just said fantabulous: combo of fabulous and fantastic). I had fun today...even more than the 1st shoot, but both shoots have something in common and that is that i honestly can't complain about anything because they went very well. So i'm happy. It was fun doing the sound for this shoot, you can hear everything with that boom mike (even a few belches, sneezes and yawns from persons on set)...as I said, you can hear everything...lol. Today was really a cool day and the best part was that our actors had fun doing the shots which made the process less intimidating and more relaxed and enjoyable even though we were pressed for time and wanted to shoot quickly. I believe everybody enjoyed the day the most when we did the scenes out by the road at QC for the car accident scene. I know for sure that I enjoyed it. The best part was the reactions from what seemed like all the drivers on the road who were passing on the road who witnessed Akil knocking down our actor (Emanuel) with the car....that was classic. I wished we had another camera to shoot behind the scenes especially because I know I would have included a good few reactions from passers by in it. I was cracking up with laughter......I love this job....lol. There was only one setback that I really don't wish to mention much about a particular actor who didn't hold up his end of the bargain when he should have. Only positive energy will be in this blog. All in all, today was fantabulously exctitng and entertaining and i like the whloe working with sound. Maybe one of these days I will try my luck on an even more professional and complicated mixer and work it like a pro, but for now I think i'll take things step by step. Oh yeah and one more thing, this one is kinda random: I'm shocked at how much cheese paste was eaten, wow, ya'll really liked it, that's good, at least I know it tasted right and had some 'comeback' in it. So I guess Shawn was right, Green is a good colour.....lol.

AMAZING DINNER THEATRE....................

Okay....and i can't sleep if you look at the time of this post.....I won't lie to you guys........I am excited....indeed........

It has been a long time I have worked on a project and I'm enjoying it......I'm enjoying working with Levi and I'm working behind the scenes once again and with my partner Levi we will have a great day today.

De Men Productions.......

We are looking forward to have a great day....It took us a while to get this far but we know some difficulties may arise during the day but we are prepared to fight through them.........

THE SHOOT - A few Guidelines

Hello Class,

Well, here I am in England.

I wanted to wish a great shoot to Mekway Productions and De Men Productions. Here are some guidelines towards the smooth and efficient running of your shoot.

Pre-shoot Meeting
Once cast and crew are assembled, have a quick production meeting with everyone,
-for introductions (Just say your name, and your role), so everyone knows who is doing what, and
- for the Director to set the vision for the day.
- Go through the Schedule for the day so everyone knows what is to be accomplished in how much time.
- Housekeeping issues should also be adressed ie what time is lunch, where are the toilets etc.
- Leave time for a few questions.
- This is also the time to get any outstanding contracts signed by cast and crew (essential everyone signs BEFORE they start working)
This meeting should be short and sweet but is essential for everyone to start the day on the same page.

The Shoot
Shoots are hierarchical, because it is hard work, involving coordination of alot of people, and it needs to happen smoothly.
- The most important person on the set is the Director, from whom all vision and direction flows.
- The 2nd most important voice on the set is that of the 1st Assistant Director, who runs the set on behalf of the Director, and whose responsibility it is to make sure that the shoot starts and ends on time, and the day is accomplished as planned.
- The DP and his team (Lighting, Electrics, Grip) come next - as they are responsible for achieving the vision of the director.
- Don't forget your sound recordist because without good sound you're in trouble.
- The PA/Continuity person is essential to log the shots, and ensure continuity.

Set Protocol
For each set up:
1st Assistant Director tells the crew what the shot it, and asks the DP how long he needs to light. The 1st then informs the crew "We will be going for a rehearsal in X mins. The DP and Lighting team begin their work. The 1st AD calls order and quiet to the set. The 1st AD calls the rehearsal ("Stand by for a rehearsal, please." ) then when it is time, he calls the scene. (1stAD: "Camera Ready" DP:"Rolling" 1st AD "Sound Ready" Recordist "Rolling") and the director or the 1st AD says "Action". (If it is large noisy set eg a busy street, then the first will say action. Some directors don't like to raise their voice so they may give the 1st AD a sign and the DP will say Action on behalf of the director). The Director says "CUT".
Make sure that there is time for Audio to get wild tracks for each location. That is at least 30 secs or room atmosphere. The AD calls for quiet and times it.
The PA must keep careful notes of each set up and take, noting which takes were n/g (no good) which were good and which the director liked best.

Try to follow these guidelines faithfully. Have a good shoot!

Love FA

PS: A friend of mine found this definition of a producer which I think says it all:

"A real producer holds the vision of the project. They're the first person to turn on the lights in the morning, and the last person to turn out the lights at night. They are the leader, the go-to person, the solution-provider, the conflict resolver. They are consistent, passionate, fair and fierce. They know how to pick their battles. They know how to inspire others, even and especially when they are taking hits and bleeding profusely from their own battles to keep the ship afloat. They are everyone's confidante, keep everyone's counsel, but beat to their own drum. Their number one client: the Director. Their number one loyalty: the project - which brings us back around to vision."