It takes a huge number of people to put together a feature or documentary film or a television show. From the director down to the best boy, everyone has an important role to play. Let's take a look at the film production team.
The Writer - writes the script, commentary and dialogue.
The Producer - raises the money and is responsible for the overall production.
The Director - interprets the script or proposal into film, and directs actors and production crew through the production manager and assistant director.
The Cinematographer - (or Director of Photography) sets up shots according to the wishes of the director.
The Production Manager - draws up the budgets and schedules, and manages them for the duration of the shoot.
The Assistant Director - maintains order on the set, and makes sure actors are present when needed.
The Line Producer - coordinates all financial and scheduling aspects of the shooting phase of the production.
The Composer - composes the theme and music for the film.
The Narrator - is the off-camera voice of the film.
The Assistant Camera - sets up the camera, keeps it clean, loads film, operates the clapper board and keeps the camera report sheet.
The Gaffer - places the lights where directed.
The Best Boy - assists the Gaffer and positions the cables.
The Grip - moves equipment, builds scaffold, lays track.
The Boom Operator - maneuvers microphones.
The Sound Recorder - records sounds and directs the boom operator.
The Sound Editor - synchronizes the sound track with the visuals, and cuts in sound effects, music and narration.
The Sound Mixer - brings together all the individual sound tracks, combining them into one cohesive master track.
The Picture Editor - arranges the shots together into the final form, according to the director's vision of the film.
The Art Director - creates the look of the film through the use of sets, lighting, costumes and props; and works with the Set Designer to achieve the final look.
The Special Effects Designer - creates the spectacular stunts and effects that look so real onscreen.
The Makeup Artist - can completely change the way an actor looks.
The Costume Designer - creates the clothing the actors wear.