the Field depts.
NOTE — There are so many things that go into making a series or a movie that get so little attention. As Bound builds, please use the “Production” pages as a guide to the many elements that must come together to make the series at a certain standard. The pages will be a directory, as we add team member profiles, and also, the pages can act as a general breakdown of the budget and funding goal:
Each section below has a department overview and listings of the needed jobs to fill. Overall, it’s the cumulative jobs included that are the greatest expense of the project (and rightfully so). The jobs will make up 50-60% of the budget, with the rest going to set design, gear sourcing, platform build and of course - as sure as death - taxes and fees on fundraising and production.
Introduction to “FIELD.”
— The following departments are about ensuring the Story/Craft teams have the resources and care needed to make the series. It’s so important to invest here for a better, final product which comes from a better production experience for the teams.
PRODUCTION
— The engine room, Part 1. Here we primarily cover safety, budget and footprint. There’s an allotment for filming permits, insurances, and production supplies and vehicles (2). We’ve also considered larger, “off-site” sequences (away from the main sets) which may require a security or medical presence.
Jobs included.
Production Chief — This person is the sheriff on the ground. They ensure permits, etc. are secured and completed, and they monitor safety protocols and the production’s footprint. They also help onboard crew members and keep spending in check.
Production Crew — At least one, full-time assistant and room for extras hands during larger sequences.
LOGISTICS
— The engine room, Part 2. Here we cover scheduling, setup and communication. Damn near everyday of production can bring an obstacle, or a “switch up.” So, it’s important to have people dedicated to timing and to (persistently) getting everything and everyone ready or on the same page.
Jobs included.
Field Director — This person crafts the master schedule, then enforces it. They stay on top of departments and sets, ensuring all are ready to go. (They’re often called Assistant Director but I don’t like the word “assistant” for such a leading role).
Crew Captain — Leads the set up/storage of gear/props.
Logistics Crew — One, full-time assistant and an allotment for utility crew on days with a lot of setup.
Reception
— Planning and hosting a (professional) party. Any way you spin it, people are going to have to travel for Bound. We’ll try to keep all supporting crew local to mitigate cost, but the casting net has no boundary and department heads will likely be scattered, too. So, flights and housing are budgeted for them.
Jobs included.
Production Coordinator — This person leads in organizing the flights and housing for all team members. They also help in arranging transportation needs during filming, as well as monitor and support any other travel needs on the ground.
Lead Driver — For “off-site” filming or larger sequences with lots of moving parts. Plus, airport or station runs, as needed.
Reception Crew — One, full-time assistant.
Catering
— Yes, a department just for food (plus a little more). For Bound, a number of people may be working abroad for upwards of three months. So, we’ve budgeted grocery stipends and funds for prepared, group meals on longer filming days. This also covers snacks and care items on sets, across all episodes.
Jobs included.
Catering Director — This person maps the food plan for all team members over the eight episodes (plus some prep days). They keep up inventory and prepare meals, as needed, during filming. (Or, they work with local establishments on catering).
Catering Crew — A dedicated assistant for food prep.