What Does an Executive Producer Do? (2024)

Answered

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If you’ve ever wondered, “What does an executive producer do, anyway?”, then you’ve come to the right place! The world of filmmaking is an exciting one for many people. But for those outside the filmmaking sphere, or those just dipping their toes in the industry, a lot of mystery surrounds most production jobs. And this is certainly the case when it comes to the role of an executive producer.

A film shoot is a well-oiled machine, and being on set is an important milestone for filmmakers and other production crew staff. To show up confidently, it is crucial to understand the different mechanics of production. This includes who’s who on set, what they do, and why it matters. So, let’s start at the top. One of the biggest players in the filmmaking process is the executive producer. But what does an executive producer do? Executive producers, much like Peerspace and our amazing network of film production spaces and dedicated hosts, are there to help ease the creation process and make planning your next project less stressful.

We’ll explain the ins and outs of their role ahead and even shares an insider’s look at Peerspace and some amazing production locations you can book through the platform. Let’s get started!

First of all, what is an executive producer?

What Does an Executive Producer Do
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An executive producer is in charge of sourcing funding for films. They seek funding from independent film financing companies, film studios such as Warner Brothers, or from their own pocket. Because of this, an executive producer must be well connected with investors and savvy about what the film marketplace wants. They are also in charge of the other producers on the production, as in they make the executive decisions.

Plus, executive producers tend to oversee most aspects of a production, from the time the script is in hand until the feature is on screen. Overall, it is a role that requires a strong leader with business savvy.

What does an executive producer do?

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Most of an executive producer’s involvement is during the development process of a film. During this time, a film is in its infancy and might not have a crew or even a finished script. The executive producer works with a line producer on a budget to submit for approval if studio funding is involved. Even the most independent of productions need a thoughtful budget to support creative decisions and assemble a dedicated crew.

Talent seekers

Another critical part of the executive producer’s role in development is to help secure the talent. Seeking out “marquee talent” (well-known actors) can attract financiers who recognize the benefits of an actor’s popularity. Audiences will pack the theater to watch their favorite actors on screen. When trying to secure as much funding as possible, landing marquee talent in the development stage is pivotal.

Consultations

An executive producer’s direct involvement in the production process varies, but they typically supervise from a distance. Executive producers within a studio hierarchy may serve as the production company’s representative on set. These executives are present to make sure the film stays in line with the studio’s brand and vision. Either way, executive producers are always available to consult on financial questions and major creative decisions that might shift the course of the film or impact the budget.

Business dealings

By the time post-production comes around — editing, coloring, sound mixing — the executive producer might already have moved on to other projects. While their involvement from this point may be minimal, they will still provide notes on the first cut of the film along with their other fellow producers.

Executive producers supervise the business part of filmmaking exclusively. This includes making sure that the rest of the producers have what they need to get started.

For more production must-knows, check out our guide on everything you need to know about pre-production.

Does this apply to TV executive producers too?

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No, in fact, TV executive producers are very different from the executive producers in film. TV executive producers aren’t in charge of financing but serve as the creative foundation for television shows. In other words, they are the idea people.

As the show’s creator, head writer, and showrunner, these executive producers wear many hats and oversee the overall development of the story. During production, they take care of the day-to-day personnel management and make sure that everyone involved feels valued. In contrast, executive producers for films typically stick to the logistical, financial issues.

What are the other types of producers?

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There are many different producers involved in film production, but the major ones include the producer, associate producer, supervising producer, coordinating producer, and line producer.

The producer

The producer is part of the process from the beginning, sometimes even before the executive producer. Every film has a different genesis, but producers are always on the lookout for ideas they want to pursue. Once they find an exciting one, they will start looking for the right people to help bring it to life. Producers are also often the people to pitch to financiers because they are the most familiar with the story’s purpose.

Once production begins, producers are the director’s right hand when it comes to supporting the artistic vision. By managing workflow and coordinating between different departments, they allow the director to focus fully on their creative process. A great producer should hire a crew that doesn’t need supervision and is on board with the film’s creative goals.

Associate producers

An associate producer’s job is to support the producer and handle any assignments they may delegate. This title can also be used as a courtesy for anyone who supported the film’s development but isn’t quite at the level of an executive or producer.

Supervising producers

Supervising producers typically oversee at least one other producer as well as other production team members. They are also known as “development producers” since they help smooth the project’s transition through its various stages. On set, they fill the role of the executive producer by answering budget questions and keeping the creative mission on track.

Coordinating producers

When there are multiple projects with multiple producers, a coordinating producer is the person who keeps everyone in sync. Marvel films are a perfect example since several movies with multiple producers are usually in production at once. Because each film is part of a larger narrative, the coordinating producer must ensure that all films fit into the established universe.

Line producers

The job of a line producer is to quickly and efficiently deal with any crisis that arises on set. They also help oversee day-to-day spending, while the executive producers are more focused on the big-picture budget. Because line producers are needed on set at all times, they only work on one production at a time, unlike other types of producers.

So what does an executive producer do, overall?

What Does an Executive Producer Do
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Filmmaking is, at its core, a collaborative effort. And executive producers are the leaders at the top of the pack. A talented team is vital to the production of any movie worth watching. However, it is also important to credit the people who put in that extra hustle to inspire movie magic.

By securing the financing that first gets a film off the ground and working tirelessly to keep the production afloat, executive producers are ultimately the ones who turn an idea into a reality. Therefore, to answer the question, “What is an executive producer?” more simply: they are the fairy godmothers of cinema.

What’s like an Airbnb for warehouses? Learn all about it here!

Peerspace can help bring your production to life

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If you work in film and are looking for incredible film production venues, why not try Peerspace? We can connect you to thousands of film shoot venues available to book by the hour or day in cities across the globe. From warehouses and mansions to lofts and restaurants, you can find venues that perfectly match what you need for your production.

Here are a couple of examples to get you started:

Many are already equipped with A/V equipment, production lighting, and other filmmaking amenities. If you find the perfect location but it lacks a little something, then contact your venue’s local host. Peerspace hosts are dedicated to ensuring your experience in their space goes perfectly. And when it comes to hosts who list their production spaces, you can rest assured that many are members of the filmmaking community too, and understand the rigors of the production world.

What does an executive producer do? Conclusion

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Hopefully by now, you have a better understanding of what an executive producer does. It is a multifaceted role, and one essential for creating an exceptional creative project. We also hope that you’re looking forward to using Peerspace to uncover and book amazing spaces near you to bring your shoot to life. Head to our platform, input your filming location or destination, and see all of the amazing venues that suit your creative vision.

And remember, with Peerspace’s helpful listing pages, you can see photos of a venue, read a detailed description, see upfront pricing, and examine reviews from past renters before making a decision. If you have any questions or requests, simply reach out to your venue’s local host and they’ll be pleased to help.

Curious about other aspects of the film industry? Check out Peerspace’s complete filmmaking resources page.

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