The Ultimate Indie Film Producer's Feature Film To-Do List
I don’t know about you but I’m personally so much more productive once I’ve made a to-do-list and can just work down it, crossing things off. Oftentimes just knowing where to start and what all needs to be done is half the battle. While producing my first feature, I was constantly worried I was forgetting something crucial. That feeling is what led me to create this checklist for you - the checklist I wish I had had at the start of my feature film journey.
With The Ultimate Indie Film Producer’s Feature Film To-Do-List, I wanted to demystify the process and help guide first-time feature producers/filmmakers through the basic steps of each major phase. Created in partnership with my own legal team, this guide contains all of the to-do’s to consider when laying the groundwork for your feature film.
Here's what's inside:
THE ULTIMATE PRE-PRODUCTION TO-DO-LIST:
First Steps
Legal To-Do’s
Setting up the Production Office
Pre-Production Paperwork To-Do’s
Cast-Related To-Do’s
Visual Effects To-Do’s
Script & Schedule To-Do’s
Breakdowns Checklist
Budgetary & Accounting To-Do’s
Insurance To-Do’s
Post-Production Related To-Do’s
Locations To-Do’s
Orders to Place
Transportation to Secure
Specialty Items to Secure
On Set Copies & Blanks to Prepare
On Set Essentials to Supply
THE DISTANT LOCATIONS CHECKLIST
THE DAILY PRODUCTION OFFICE CHECKLIST
THE ULTIMATE WRAP OUT TO-DO-LIST:
Making a feature is a marathon of a thousand tiny sprints, and the fact that you’re even looking at this checklist means you’ve already cleared the biggest hurdle: the transition from "dreamer" to "doer."
Preparation isn’t just about logistics; it’s an act of respect for your story, your crew, and your future self.
I hope this guide helps you along the way and sheds light on everything you'll be up against while producing your first feature! You can do it!
x Racheal
Disclaimer: These checklists are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. While they were created with professional input, every production is unique. We recommend having a lawyer review your final agreements to ensure they meet your specific local laws and needs.