While stars and directors often get most of the attention, it’s the movie producer who quietly operates – behind the scenes. Producing a film is an intense, rewarding and varied job that’s crucial to the success of any movie. But what does a movie producer do, and how do you become one?
This guide breaks down the movie producer’s role, from funding and casting to the daily grind of filmmaking. We’ll separate producers from directors, explore famous movie producers, answer common salary questions, and uncover what it truly takes to succeed in the film industry.
What does a producer do in the movies?
A movie producer is the driving force behind most aspects of film production. From the earliest germ of an idea to promoting the finished film, producers manage the complex web of decisions, teams, and resources that bring a script to the cinema screen.
Movie producer responsibilities include:
- Sourcing or commissioning the script
- Securing financing and negotiating budgets
- Hiring key personnel (directors, cast, crew)
- Overseeing casting, scheduling and locations
- Guiding the project through filming, editing, and post-production
- Marketing and distribution planning
- Ensuring the film is delivered on time and within budget
A producer’s job involves both creative and logistical work. They solve high-level problems, protect the film’s vision and ensure every department works together. Once filming wraps, they might coordinate test screenings, supervise editing, or work with distributors to secure cinema releases and streaming deals.
Being a producer means taking accountability when things go wrong and sharing success when things go right. Producers are the constant thread tying together all departments.
Types of producers
Co-Producer/Producer: Shares all responsibilities or is one of several key producers.
Executive Producer: Focuses on financing, contracts and the big picture.
Line Producer: Manages day-to-day logistics on set.
Associate Producer: Handles delegated tasks under the main producer.
Famous movie producers
Some movie producers have become as well-known as the actors and directors they work with. Here are a few you might recognise:
- Kathleen Kennedy (Star Wars, Jurassic Park)
- Steven Spielberg (Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, via Amblin/ DreamWorks)
- Kevin Feige (The Marvel Cinematic Universe)
- Barbara Broccoli (former James Bond franchise producer)
- Jerry Bruckheimer (Pirates of the Caribbean, Top Gun)
These famous movie producers have shaped cinematic history, proving just how influential a producer can be.
The difference between a movie producer and a director
While both jobs are central to filmmaking, their focus is very different.
Producer: Looks after the business and logistical side, assembles the overall team, secures funding, and makes key decisions on how, when and where to produce the film.
Director: Focuses on creative execution, guiding actors’ performances and making artistic choices about how the story is told.
While the producer often hires the director, the two must work closely together to ensure the project succeeds.
Who has more power, a movie producer or director?
Generally, producers have the final say, especially over budgets and hiring. However, in some cases, an acclaimed director may take the lead on creative choices, and producers step back. In many instances, this dynamic can be complicated by the fact that the same person might be the producer and the director/actor.
Are producers usually on set?
Whether producers are usually on set depends on the type of film and the size of the team. Executive producers may rarely visit the set, focusing on finances and overall strategy. Line producers and co-producers are usually hands-on, making sure everything runs smoothly during filming.
On major productions, it’s common to see at least one producer present during key scenes, while on independent films, producers may take on multiple practical on-set roles.
Do producers pay for the movie?
A huge part of the producer’s expertise is in finding and assembling funding. They manage investments from studios, private backers, or even crowdfunding. Occasionally, a producer may use their own money to secure a project early, but the aim is almost always to bring in outside finance.
Producers are responsible for sourcing and raising the funds needed to make a film, but they don’t usually pay out of their own pockets (apart from Francis Ford Coppola!). Instead, they approach studios, investors, and sometimes government film bodies for investment or tax rebates.
The producer might develop detailed budgets and pitch decks to convince these backers to support the project. Many will use their industry connections to piece together funding from multiple sources.
How do I become a movie producer?
Aspiring producers benefit from a mix of formal film education, industry networking, and practical experience.
Steps to becoming a movie producer:
- Gain experience on set, even in junior roles.
- Study film or production at a further education college or university for foundational skills and contacts.
- Build a network in the film industry through internships, festivals and online communities.
- Learn budgeting, contracts and legal basics.
- Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging technologies.
Many successful producers started small, working their way up from runner or assistant roles.
How much do movie producers get paid?
Movie producer salaries vary enormously:
- UK averages: £40,000–£55,000 for established producers, but entry-level roles pay less. This is according to prospects.ac.uk
- Producers on major blockbusters can earn six or even seven-figure sums, depending on profit shares.
- Successful UK film producers’ earnings can depend on a mix of salary and back-end profits.
Do producers get paid more than actors?
Not usually, though it depends. Hollywood actors can earn enormous fees, with A-listers paid more than almost anyone on a set. While producers can earn a significant share if a film is successful, most UK producers make less than leading actors, especially on mainstream films.
Your next step into movie production
Want to become the next big name in film production? The world of movie producing is both challenging and rewarding, blending creativity, business acumen, and leadership. Producers shape the stories we see, handling everything from budgets to red carpet premieres.
If you’re serious about a career as a producer, gaining real-world training and industry connections is key. Here at Access Creative College, we offer a hands-on film course designed to help you master the skills needed for movie production. You’ll develop a strong foundation, connect with industry professionals, and learn what it really takes to bring stories to life on screen.
Start your film career with Access Creative College and join the next generation of movie producers.
