Pre Pre-Production
I had decided that I would not be a Producer on either of the two films that we would be making at the end of term. I had other projects in my head, and I really wanted a lighter-role. Perhaps Editing. It was only when we found out that we would be making one single film, with double the budget, a bigger crew, and full-support from above that I impulsively changed my mind. The main factor was the strength of Charlotte's script, coupled with the wondrous production nightmares it presented. I knew that it was a big challenge, and I wanted to be a part of the team that met that challenge head-on!
Pre-Production
Moments after the announcement of the film, and an initial read-through, off we went. Murdo sourced break-down sheets, Galina broke the script down into eighths, and I started to look at the bigger picture: "What do we prioritise?" "Where do we start?" "Who will be responsible for each aspect of the production?"Looking back at the first production-day update, it's amazing how much we started doing. I think, in retrospect, focusing on one thing and completing it - rather than jumping between loads of different tasks - might be a better idea. We started looking at locations, child-licensing laws, casting through agencies, prices for kit to hire-in, the need for a costume designer and make-up artists all within the first few hours. A little mental.
As classes began to wind down we had solid production-time in which we were really able to get to work. Our production classes with Abigail were useful in pushing us in the right direction and helping us with any issues. They were normally attended by the whole class, though with a notable lack of enthusiasm. It seemed that people felt it was all irrelevant to them. Which, on this production, it may be - but who's to say that you won't be made to produce at some stage? I think that a compulsory swapping of roles may benefit our own development and prevent any narrow-mindedness... but considering how well we slipped into our roles this time, I would worry what the final product of this experiment would be.
In general, the pre-production of the film went really well. Given our lack of knowledge of even some of the more simple things (like Call Sheets, or the Academy's Van Booking system) it's quite impressive that we were able to deal with some of the more unique issues. Particularly because we worked on mobiles and those stand-up internet terminals, as the Production Office was never free for our use. Too many films, too few desks/computers/phones/chairs. It's all a balance: bigger kit room = smaller production office. But my phone-bill for that month was considerably higher than previous months...
And, in the last moments we could really still class as Pre-Production, Paul decided it was about time I was introduced to the Accident Report Form. Which I dealt with, as promptly as one can when away from the building. Following this, however, I was asked to fill-out an accident investigation form. I thought this to be standard practice, but Adam remained unsure. For such a minor accident as a cut to a finger, the accident investigation form could unfairly implicate a number of people (simply depending on which of the many-applicable boxes is ticked). Adam said he would investigate the investigation to find out why it was thought necessary.Post Pre-Production (AKA, Pre Post-Production... or just "Production")
My on-set job was far less important than those of pretty much everyone else, but I do think that it was useful having someone to deal with the welfare of the cast, make-up artist and chaperone (and, sometimes, the crew too). Mostly making teas and coffees, preparing meals, and such. I was also monitoring Robert's workload to ensure that we were functioning within the law, and I could also be found working on the schedule for the next day. It wasn't the hardest job, but I was on-hand to deal with any issues, had there been any!I do have to say, though, that I was very impressed by everyone's effort on-set. A couple of times in Pre-Production I was concerned by a lack of progress (and in fairness, the lack of preparation did show at times) but everyone settled into their roles very quickly, and we started working like a well-oiled train. Charlotte set the destination, Galina shouted orders, the Crew got to work, and I wandered around with a trolley; "Tea? Coffee? Any refreshments?"
Of course, not everything went as we had hoped. We did have a small issue with Blu-Tak removing a section of paint from the wall. As this issue is still being dealt with, however, I will refrain from saying how insanely out-of-hand I feel it is getting. However, I appreciate the help from above in dealing with it.
Post-Production
Okay, whilst the editing is still on-going, my role as a producer has began to wind down. I dealt with the receipts shortly after returning from the Edinburgh Film Festival, and I've only a little petty cash left to claim to repay some small expenses. Galina, Murdo and myself have nearly finished compiling the production folder. It contains all our unique paperwork now, and simply needs a few print outs added. Other than that, there's very little we need to do.Having said that, there are still the two floating issues: the accident investigation and the paint-issue. Both are currently out of our hands, and I'm hoping that they are resolved shortly.
So, here we are. 39 days ago we were told 'Little Clown' was going to be made. 208 emails later (for me, at least) and we're almost there. I saw the first rough-cut today, and I'm really excited to see where it goes. It's looking good, and whilst there's very limited time left until we screen it, I have every faith that Michael and Phil will be able to make it even better!
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