A Producers Perspective
Recently CORE sat down with film producer Jacob Snovel to discuss some common questions around the film industry. Whether you are new to the industry, wanting to transition or simply curious, below you will find 8 common questions on a producer's role within film. CORE is here to guide you… here is one way we like to help.
Can you walk us through the distinct stages of film production, from pre-production to post-production, and explain what happens during each stage?
Pre-Production is that of planning – creating the product – getting the film ready, so to speak. Aligning it for every angle. Just like your books, your tax planning is one of the same.
Post- Production is the “polishing” & final product. Just like submitting that tax return & understanding the numbers that fall around it.
How do you ensure that the script is ready for production during the pre-production stage, and what steps do you take to ensure the script is finalized?
I traditionally rely on the director & writers for this. I look at the script in pre-production as more of a moment of problem solving in order to create a better product. It may go through many drafts before landing at my desk – this in turn allows the issues to be ironed out ahead of time (as much as possible) to ideally move ahead into production.
Can you explain the importance of location scouting in the pre-production stage, and how it can impact the overall production of the film?
Once again, this falls in line with the planning aspect of the film. You must scout so you can see where all will take place. This tends to fall within the director's scope of work as his vision will be seen through this decision.
What steps do you take to ensure that the cast and crew are well-prepared for production during the pre-production stage?
Consistent communication - a lot is happening during the pre-production stage. The better the communication in terms of changes, edits, schedules, call times etc. the smoother the process.
Can you explain how the role of the director changes throughout the different stages of film production, from pre-production to post-production?
This is subject to the director & the way they work – Each one has their own way of working through each phase. I have worked with some who are used to doing it all, start to finish. They could be directing a particular scene, but at the same time thinking in terms of how to edit said scene & this in turn determines how you are going to shoot the scene, the length of the scene & the time. Some are more straight forward – you shoot it, get a few takes & edit later.
How do you manage the budget during the production stage, and what steps do you take to ensure that you stay within budget?
“Managing” aka “adapting” You must consistently adapt within your budget. While in pre-production you plan & you set it up as to look from every angle. Some things just don’t go as planned. The faster I can get hard numbers the better. This allows me to plan further ahead & rely on a more solid chance of staying within budget. Alongside this – is Contingency. Always build a contingency plan. I typically budget around union standard. This sets you up for success & allows you to play a little more. While the goal is to not have to use the allotted contingency, you at least have it squared away. Just as typical best practice for small businesses. You should always set aside for that rainy day with the hope it always sunny.
Can you explain the importance of sound design and music in the post-production stage, and how it can impact the overall tone of the film?
Music direction & sound design can set the tone for your film. It as well can place direction & perspective in how your story is being played out. Most importantly your music can deliver how your message or story is being perceived by your audience. I have some directors that immediately work with their composer before shooting even begins & lays it all out ahead of time during pre-production. Others during post once shooting is wrapped.
How do you approach marketing and distribution during the final stages of film production, and what steps do you take to ensure that the film reaches its intended audience?
Typically, from my end, I like to leverage our distributors connections & network. I aim to rope all in cost with them. For the sake of budget this tends to be best practice for us, as they (the distributors) have the pull to mass market & push out the film.
Any advice for fellow creatives or industry professionals?
Be Present in order to be relevant. You’re in the creative industry so be creative in how you connect.
You must show up. Be at networking events, screenings, see who you need to connect with. Say what you can do & deliver that, follow the crew calls & position yourself so you can work, learn & connect with other industry professionals.
Jacob Snovel
Creative Producer | Character Actor | Production
Jacob is a Dynamic and accomplished creative producer of content and training programs with more than a decade of experience in training and managing employees, as well as maintaining budgets over multiple projects at once. Successfully assessed instructional needs, finances, risks, and more, on a variety of projects with various goals. Successfully produced more than a dozen feature films, overseeing more than 50 employees while managing more than one million dollars in cash, goods, services, and assets. Recognized instructor and speaker at national training events. Recipient of OK Gazette’s 2019 40 Under 40 award. Alongside his producer role he is a character actor. Mr. Snovel is best known for his award-winning performance as Elvis Presley in the surrealist drama, "Mickey Reece's Alien". Jacob's performances have proven his wide range from sadistic villains to stoned-faced comic entrepreneurs and raspy-voiced conspiracy theorist veterans. His production company, Perm Machine, has averaged two indie features a year over the course of more than 10 years.
Jacob is currently releasing 3 features this year. Producer of "What Rhymes with Reason" and "The Awkward Stage" Lead Actor in "Hell Hath No Fury"