Preparing for Takeoff: Preproduction for the Independent Filmmaker from Focal Press features preproduction tips on scheduling, previsualization, script analysis, location scouting, budgeting, hiring vendors, and clearing permits. It is written by Arthur Vincie, a film and television veteran with over fifteen years of experience as a line producer, producer, and director. Active in the NYC independent production community, Vincie has also done production work for major television networks including NBC, ABC, and BBC America.
Within this softcover book you will find a detailed analysis of the role that both producers and directors play in the preproduction process, along with advice on how to prepare for postproduction and distribution while still in the early stages of making a film. Included in Appendix B are helpful forms to get you started.
- Part I: Early Days and the Big Picture
- Chapter 1: The Film Life Cycle
- Chapter 2: Preparing Your Business
- Chapter 3: Fixing the Script
- Chapter 4: Working with Other People
- Chapter 5: Assembling Your Initial Team
- Chapter 6: Marketing
- Part II: The Director's Path
- Chapter 7: Script Analysis
- Chapter 8: Gathering Materials
- Chapter 9: Prep for Casting
- Part III: The Producer's Path
- Chapter 10: The Breakdown
- Chapter 11: The Budget
- Chapter 12: Thinking Strategically
- Chapter 13: Vendors, Equipment, Negotiations
- Chapter 14: Dealing with Guilds and Unions
- Part IV: Joint Preparation
- Chapter 15: Casting
- Chapter 16: Location Scouting
- Chapter 17: Hiring Your Crew
- Chapter 18: Rehearsals
- Chapter 19: Tech Scouting
- Chapter 20: Previsulization
- Part V: The Shoot and After
- Chapter 21: Routines for Success in Production
- Chapter 22: Preparing for Post
- Chapter 23: Preparing for Distribution
- Chapter 24: Beyond Basic Planning
- Appendices
- Appendix A: Further Reading/Tools/Resources
- Appendix B: Helpful Forms