Planning the Low-Budget Film

The second edition of this now-classic, step-by-step blueprint for aspiring and novice filmmakers draws upon more than 30 years of experience from an industry professional. The book examines how to identify and break down shooting sequences in scripts, scout locations, create a production board and shooting schedule, deal with unions, budget a film, and rebound when it all goes wrong. Along the way, readers learn how to economize to get the most value from limited funds and what to look for in a prospective crew. To facilitate understanding of the concepts, a real-life example of a complete budget and production board for an independent low-budget feature film, The Anarchist Cookbook, is provided. The guide’s sources of supply and information—film commissions in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and England; payroll companies; and vendors of supplies, along with a directory of unions and guides, have been updated and expanded.