A production manager oversees the financing and employment issues in a film or a television production. They are in charge of the production budget and they also make sure that during filming everything runs smoothly. Before the production begins, he examines the scripts, draws up a shooting schedule, and hires contractors. He also oversees the location bookings and gets necessary permissions. During filming he has to make sure that the production runs on schedule and also that the insurance, safety, and health rules are followed.
What to look for
Vision
A great manager should have terrific vision so they can see the film from the conception stage to its final product. He should never lose sight of their ultimate goal.
Problem solver
On set, it is inevitable to have a few problems. Everyone looks up to the manager to solve these problems. He must, therefore, identify problems in a smart way and figure out the best solutions to them.
Great communicators
The manager must have excellent communication skills. He must clearly express his production goals to his team and work in unison to accomplish this goal.
Know what you need
What service do you need?
Before looking into special effects suppliers it is vital that you know precisely what the film needs. Clearly pre-visualising the plan and communicating it to the production manager enables them to know what exactly they are looking for.
Are there any animals in the film?
Animals need weeks of training before shooting a scene. A trainer should, therefore, be hired early enough to give them ample time to work with the animal.
Are there stunts involved?
Safety is always a concern when it comes to stunts. The stunt coordinator must be consulted on different aspects of the stunts including the danger they entail.
Questions to ask a potential candidate
What ideas can you offer?
Many managers will take a passive role and they will only do what you ask of them. You need a production manager that takes a hands-on approach and works closely with you so as to creatively collaborate ideas to make the best film possible.
Do you have examples of your work?
Asking for work samples they have completed from previous clients allows you to assess their professionalism and their attention to detail. If they have successfully worked with other clients, chances are high they will accomplish your goals as well.
What is your specialty?
Some people specialize in different productions such as comedies or action films. If they specialize in what you are looking for, they have the potential to be a perfect fit in terms of their production abilities.
Have you ever had to change your production style to accommodate a team member?
A manager must be capable of working with his team. They should, therefore, be open to adapt different styles with different team members so as to accommodate them.
How do you resolve conflict with team members?
Production managers are on the front line when a difficult situations arise. The answer varies depending on the interviewee personality and can reveal his personality.
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