ABSTRACT

Any short film production is a compendium of practical details. This chapter presents a method for assessing, organizing and tracking these myriad logistical requirements. This process starts by determining how many scenes are in the script. Each scene is then measured according to its page count. Next, and most crucially, all the production needs in the screenplay are tagged according to a color-coded system. This covers any detail, large or small, that is germane to the shooting of each scene, including the roster of actors, extras, vehicles, props and hair and makeup needs. Breaking the script down in this way is not a mindless exercise; it requires fully envisioning every aspect of the movie. The producer must also frequently wrestle with a number of tricky issues: What determines when a performer is an actor or an extra? When should a special effect be produced on set versus through digital wizardry? If an object like a sheriff’s star or an I.D. badge is part of a character’s outfit, should it be considered a prop or part of wardrobe? Detailed examples of an actual script breakdown provide answers to these and other questions.