Film budgeting refers to the process by which a line producer, unit production manager, or filmmaker prepares a
budget for a
film production. This document, which could be over 150 pages long, is used to secure financing for and lead to pre-production and production of the film. Multiple drafts of the budget may be required to whittle down costs. A budget is typically divided into four sections:
above the line (creative talent),
below the line (direct production costs),
post-production (editing, visual effects, etc.), and
other (
insurance, completion bond, etc.) Film financing can be acquired from a private investor,
sponsor,
product placement,
film studio, entertainment company, and/or out-of-pocket funds.