Different job titles in the entertainment industry, such as producer and executive producer, have varying levels of involvement in a project. A producer is typically involved in all aspects of a project, while an executive producer may have a more limited role. There is debate over who should receive executive producer credit, but only one producer is eligible for industry recognition.
For those working in the entertainment industry, job titles often take on special meaning. A title such as line producer, associate producer, or co-producer may not have the same panache as a producer or executive producer, although all of these positions are seen as vital during the production of a motion picture or television series. The difference between these roles may be a matter of perception, or there may be a measurable difference in overall project participation.
Generally, a producer is in the business of making movies or television shows or theater productions. He or she often has their own production company, complete with all the creative, technical, and financial crew needed to complete a project. A producer could also be contractually tied to a major film studio, which means they could use in-house talent or hire independent contractors. He is usually involved in a specific project from the first reading of a promising script to the final promotion of a completed film.
An executive producer, on the other hand, may not be as involved in every aspect of the project. The creator of a television series may be awarded the title due to his involvement in the writing process or long-term vision of an ongoing project. A private investor in a film may also be rewarded with an executive producer credit, although his or her participation may be minimal. Major studios with a significant financial interest in a project often assign an experienced producer or studio writer to oversee a production in an executive capacity. While ultimate authority may still rest with the producer, an executive producer could make sure the production stays within its budget or sticks to its shooting schedule.
There is some debate in the entertainment industry as to the various titles slated for producers. According to union guidelines, nearly everyone who receives screen credit must be compensated according to their union’s pay scales. While a producer may receive a generous salary and other financial benefits for their dedication to a project, a financier who provided funding or a script doctor who supervised revisions could also be recognized as an executive producer. This practice can cause some friction between those overseeing the entire project and favored actors or writers who are given honorary credits.
While a number of contributors to a film might be honored with executive producer credit, only one producer is eligible for industry recognition like the Golden Globes or Academy Awards.
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