The process of making a feature film
To a feature film is a complex and multi-step process that involves a wide range of creative and technical talents. From the initial idea and scriptwriting, to casting and rehearsals,...
To a feature film is a complex and multi-step process that involves a wide range of creative and technical talents. From the initial idea and scriptwriting, to casting and rehearsals, to filming and post-production; the process of making a feature film can take months or even years to complete. How to make good feature film is a question for everyone who aspires as a film maker.
First things first
The first step in making a feature film is to develop an idea for the story. This can come from a variety of sources, such as a personal experience. A piece of literature, or even a news article. Once the idea is formed, the next step is to write a script. This is where the story is fleshed out in detail and the structure of the film is established. The script is then reviewed and revised by a team of writers and producers to ensure that it is polished and ready for production. The script will be the blue print for the entire process moving forward. Make sure it gets treated with utmost importance. Let’s keep in mind here that this list has been dramatically simplified. Each step could be broken down into 100 smaller steps and each of those you could write a book about.
Planning to make a feature film
After the script is completed, the next step is casting. This is where actors are chosen to play the various roles in the film. The casting process can be a long and difficult process, as the right actors must be found to bring the characters to life. This process often involves holding auditions and callbacks to find the best actors for the roles. The cast can easily make or break your film. People fall in love with characters and the right cast member will be able to add that level of personality that can’t be written onto a page. The other way the cast and get you, is on set. Remember they are people with personalities… some of them are difficult. Stay away from difficult people unless they can offer something no one else can as a cast member.
Once the cast is in place, the next step is rehearsals. This is where the actors begin to work with the director and other members of the crew to bring the script to life. Rehearsals can take place on set or in a rehearsal studio. They are an important part of the process as they allow the actors to get a feel for their characters and the story. Rehearsals can be skipped and blocking done on set. But, getting good practice before hand can really make things go faster and better on set; especially when you’re paying for everyone to be there for the day.
Once rehearsals are completed, the next step is filming. This is where the story is captured on camera. Filming can take place on a sound stage or on location, depending on the needs of the story. The filming process can be a long and complex process, as it involves a wide range of technical and creative talents. From the camera operators and lighting technicians, to the makeup and wardrobe teams, everyone must work together to ensure that the film is of the highest quality. This is the reason any of us get into the business, only problem is, it takes up only about 5 percent of the total project process.
Nobody sets out to make a bad film. Nobody.
After filming is completed, the next step is post-production. This is where the film is edited and refined to ensure that it tells the story in the most effective way possible. This process can include adding special effects, sound effects, and music to enhance the overall viewing experience. The post-production process can be a long and complex process, as it involves a wide range of technical and creative talents. Editing, color, visual effects, sound and music, they all matter.
Finally, the film is ready for release. Distribution. This can be done through a variety of channels, such as a theatrical release, a streaming release, or a DVD release. The release process can be a long and complex process, as it involves a wide range of marketing and distribution efforts to ensure that the film reaches its intended audience. Distribution is EXPENSIVE. Usually, the rule of thumb is to spend as much as it cost to make the film promoting and distributing the film. Wow.
Making a feature film is a long and complex process that involves a wide range of talents and skills. From the initial idea and scriptwriting, to casting and rehearsals, to filming and post-production, the process of making a feature film can take months or even years to complete. But for those who are passionate about film-making, the end result is a work of art that can be enjoyed by audiences for years to come.