Task 2 Research Into Existing Products- Film Roles according to Codes and Conventions

Within institutional film-making the roles of the production are divided by 6 six main roles. These roles all have individual responsibilities within the process of producing the film. 

The six main roles include:

• Writer 
• Composer
• Camera Person
• Head of Casting
• Producer
• Directior

1) What might the role of the writer be?

The writers role involves taking either a pre-written story, or  a native story idea, and translate it into an "screenplay". Furthermore the role of being the write of a film is much more complex, it is not as straightforward as writing a normal story, for the simple reason that the communication is audio-visual, and not literary e.g. is conveyed through dialogue and acting not through words and sentences in a book. To create a good film the writer will focus upon aspects such as character development, dialogues, visually communicating a emotion, creating believable characters and also engaging plot points/twists. This means the writer’s role in the overall Film-making process is vital to creating a successful film. 

2) What is the responsibility of the composer?

Composers are responsible for writing music for films. They use music in order to guide the audience through the film therefore increasing the emotional impact of the film, and give a sense of atmosphere to the audience. The composer will work alongside Directors, and establish where and when music is required within the film they will then produce a musical style to suit the story, and decide on the purpose of the music. They will also work closely with the Editor through the editing progresses. Therefore the composer is responsible for writing music for films to match the Director’s vision, putting together a team of musicians, orchestrators, copyists and programmers and also overseeing the recording/editing process of the music.

3) What might the role of a camera person be?

The camera operator/person will be closely involved at all times with the setting up of shots. Within films the Director’s usually have very strong ideas on visuals and framing of the shots therefore a camera person will then be involved with the Director on the choice of lenses and the way the camera may move/angles used. The Operator will check that directions and eye lines (lefts and rights) are correct ensuring the extent of the shot is large enough so that extras and background action can be seen. They will also work with the art and props departments with the setting/background. The camera person will fine tune all camera moves, this involves panning and tilting the camera to follow the action.

4) What would be the role of the head of casting?

In pre-production, Casting Directors work with both the director and producer to form a cast for the film. As a result, Casting Directors have in-depth  knowledge of acting talents and actor/actresses. They are responsible for matching the ideal actor to each role, based on factors such as the actor's experience, ability, reputation, availability and appeal. They organise and conduct interviews and auditions for each part, and are also in charge of offering each actor an appropriate fee to appear in the film. The head of casting would have to be highly selective.

5) Who is the producer of a film and what is there role?

Producers have overall control on every aspect of a film's production. They bring together and approve the whole process. Their key role is to create a successful film by working with it throughout. They guide the film from beginning to competition. The many responsibilities of the Producer span all four phases of production. In the Development stage, Producers are often responsible for coming up with the idea for the film, producers then secure the rights to the film.  In pre-production, Producers bring together the key members of the creative team. This includes the Director, Cinematographer and Production Designer and key cast members. Producers also approve locations, studio hire, the final shooting script, production schedule and budget. Once the film is in production, Producers are responsible for the day-to-day smooth operation of the team. Producers approve all script changes and cost reports. They are the first point of contact for all production partners, investors and distributors. 

6) What would be the role of a film director?

Directors are responsible for the creativity of  the film's written script and its transition into actual images and sounds on the screen. They are ultimately responsible for a film's artistic success or failure. They develop a vision for the finished film and work out how to achieve it. During pre-production, Directors make crucial decisions, such as selecting the right cast, crew and locations for the film. They also manage the technical aspects of filming including the camera, sound, lighting, design and special effects departments. During post production, Directors work closely with editors through the many technical processes of editing, to reach the final cut or version of the film.