6 EPISODE SERIES

Making It: Pre-Production to Post

Story development and film production aren't easy. On the road to learning how to make a movie, the first stop is Pre-Production. Our series takes you step-by-step through the Pre-Production process.

6 Episodes

Each episode tracks the Pre-Production process, from script-to-screen.

Free Templates

Gantt charts, location scout checklists, actor release forms, crew deal memos, and more! 

Start Watching

Series overview

How to produce a TV show concept

See an idea go through the entire Pre-Production process.

You have ideas for a film or TV show, but you might still have questions on how to plan your production. If you want to be a successful filmmaker, you need to understand how to take your idea through the Pre-Production process. 

We've created a  web-series where we develop a TV show concept, and take you through the entire Pre-Production process of professionally producing a pilot with a $5000 budget and two days of production. 

You'll see us write the pilot script, break down our script, create a film budget, hire key department heads, create a shot list, build a production calendar, secure locations, hold auditions, hold a table read through, secure film crew and equipment, and then produce a proof of concept for a TV series. 

In our final episode, we go over what we learned. We talk about the trials and tribulations of making movies, but also the successes and memories that will stay with the entire team, and live on in the pilot presentation.

Episode Guide

EPISODE 1

Budget Bombshell

In the first episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we perform a script breakdown to create a preliminary film budget. One BIG problem — it will be 5x more expensive than the budget allows.

The team must jump back into the story development phase and rewrite the script to fit inside their limited film budget. But how will that affect the story?

EPISODE 2

Department Head Hunting

  • Freebie: Gantt Chart Template

In the second episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we hire key department heads like the Director of Photography and 1st Assistant Director so the team can spread out and secure film equipment and crew. They also build out the production calendar.

EPISODE 3

Location Lockdown

  • Freebie: Location Release Form
  • Freebie: Location Scout Checklist

In the third episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we scout locations across Los Angeles to see if they fit the team's creative needs, but also the production's practical needs. Watch as they negotiate prices to see if the space fits in with the budget.

EPISODE 4

Mission: Audition

  • Freebie: Audition Form
  • Freebie: Actor Release Form

In the fourth episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we send out a casting call and secure a space to hold auditions. They see nearly 100 actors audition for five available roles. We also create script sides, see self-tapes, and do the table read through.

EPISODE 5

11th Hour Fallout

  • Freebie: Crew Deal Memo Form 
  • Freebie: Contact List Template 

In the fifth episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we put together our film crew, secure deal memos, negotiate for film equipment, and prepare the call sheets and contacts list for the big filming weekend.

EPISODE 6

Finale: Mental Mistakes 

  • Freebie: Pre-Production Checklist

In the final episode of our Pre-Production web-series, we go over what we learned. We talk about the trials and tribulations of making movies, but also the successes and memories that will stay with the entire team, and live on in the pilot presentation.

Free filmmaking courses

This guide takes you through the ENTIRE video production process and teaches you how to make a movie. Every step you need to know.

LEARN MORE ABOUT:

  • How to professionally format your script
  • Build theme, characters, setting, and plot
  • Write in our totally FREE screenwriting software

Wondering how to make a storyboard that communicates your vision? This guide will walk you through every step with storyboard examples.

LEARN MORE ABOUT:

  • How to upload sketches
  • How to customize your layout
  • How to collaborate with your crew 

Connect with us for more freebies

Like Our Page

Follow on Instagram

For More Videos

Solution Icon - Shot List and Storyboard

Showcase your vision with elegant shot lists and storyboards.

Create robust and customizable shot lists. Upload images to make storyboards and slideshows.

Learn More ➜

Copy link