Untitled Feature in Pre-Green Light Stage

Philip Bache's untitled feature film that I am an Associate Producer on is officially in the "Pre-Green Light" stage. This is where the producers work to put together the logistics and business aspect of the film, such as the shooting schedule, the budget, and the marketing plan. Once all of that is complete, we will create a marketing package to present to potential investors. If we are lucky enough to find the investors to cover our budget, then our project becomes "Green Lighted", and we will move into the “Pre-Production” stage.

It really is amazing how long it takes to put a production together. To do it right, it takes at least 6-8 month of preparation before the shooting can begin. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a film that will have the “two kids with a camera” look. It takes months of planning and forecasting to create a successful shooting environment.

I like to compare it to building a home (something else I am familiar with). You can’t just decide one day to build a home and go out the next day with wood and nails. You need to create a budget, architect the design, bid out the work, find a location, figure out how your going to pay for it all, have the plans approved, hire the builders (and someone to manage them), and create a specific building schedule. Then, if the planets align correctly, you can begin to build your home.

Of course, the construction of a home doesn’t always go as scheduled, and there will certainly be schedule delays, material problems, budget issues, etc. But those are concerns that we will save for when we reach the “Production” stage. For now, all our focus needs to be on the task at hand – to become “Green Lighted”.