Production, Distribution, Marketing, Exhibition

Production

Production of a film is done in 4 stages: Development, pre-production, production and post-production.

Development: at this stage the producer selects a story from their own original idea, another film, true story, or a book. Once the producer has selected the theme they would like to present, they then work with the writers to make a synopsis. After they've done that they write a step outline which break down every single thing, sometimes it has dialogue but its mainly drawing to visualize what the producer wants to achieve. 

Next the screenwriter writes a screenplay which they write and rewrite until its dramatic and have a clear structure. Once all that is completed the producer and screenwriter makes a film pitch which they they present to financiers, if they get the green light it means they have the go ahead to continue with the film as they have the finical support. 

Pre-production: this is the stage where the film is planned out carefully. At this stage the production company and office is established. The producer then hires a crew (decides how big or small the crew is) and decides on a budget for the film and insurance just in-case there's an accident. In the crew that the producer creates, there are many roles such as: director, assistant director, director of photography and audiography, composer and choreographer. 

Production: this is when filming begins. but before filming begins set construction, lighting and dressing is set up several days before hand for efficiency. On the day and just before filming starts the assistant director says several things before the camera starts recording: "picture is up", "quiet everyone", "roll sound", "roll speed", "roll sound" etc and then finally the director will say action. The director has the power to do as many takes as they want until they feel that everything is covered and then they would move onto the next scene. 

Post-production: this is the final stage of production where everything is edited. Music, dialogue, is also added for effect as well as computer graphics are digitally added.

Distribution 

Films can be distributed to: the cinema, home entertainment (video or DVD), TV and digital distribution (streaming). This can be done in many ways: standard, simultaneous, straight-o-video and internet release.

Standard release: at standard release the film gets released to the cinema then to DVD/video next to pay on demand for example Lovefilms.com and then TV after two years.

Simultaneous release: this is when the film is distributed on all times of medium at the same time.

Straight-to-video release: this type of distribution is when the film is released to dvd/video without going on the big screen. 

Marketing

Films makers market their film in many ways and in many places.

Cinemas: trailers before the film, posters, slide shows, promotional toys (if it’s a children’s animation)

TV, radio, internet, newspapers: printed adverts, extended trailers on leading talk shows, reviews, pop ups etc.

 Exhibition

Cinemas fall into 1 of 2 categories: national chains; and independent exhibitors. The specific programming will depend on the target audience, with large chains often filling their multiplexes with blockbuster fare and individual independents more likely to cater to art-house crowds.A natural entry route to exhibition is to work in a cinema. Chains employ significant numbers of people to handle ticketing, confectionery sales (where cinemas tend to make the bulk of their profits), and film projection. Those working for independent exhibitors may be more involved in its programming as the cinema establishes a distinct identity for itself.