One of the big contentious issues facing the filmmaking fraternity is that of cast and crew procurement. In short, it revolves around the recompense they get – or not – for their involvement.
If you are coming into this without a clue of what the hoo-ha is about, it is very common to see posts where a filmmaker is touting for cast and crew with a request such as:
I am making a new short film about (subject) and need a camera operator with own gear, a soundie (own gear), makeup artist and director. Suit student film maker or similar.
This is a no budget film so no pay available (food supplied), but it will be ideal for your showreel and to gain experience.
Contact (person) for more details.
There are two camps of opinion on this. The first says that this is a great way to get into the biz and learn the ropes, gain experience and network for the future.
The second says if you want people to spend their time and use their equipment for YOUR film, then they should be paid. And of course showreels and experience don’t pay the bills or put food on the table.
I wanted to know what people at the coalface thought, so asked the question in a number of filmmaking-oriented Facebook groups and LinkedIn.
What I specifically asked was, “My question is quite simple; where do you stand on asking for freebie crew and actors for movies? Is it an absolute no-no? Is Ok at any time or only under certain circumstances and if so, what circumstances? Should there be conditions?”
I must confess, I was a little surprised at the response, as across the board it was very, very equal with the ‘No’ camp on 36%, the ‘Yes but conditional’ on 35% and the ‘Yes, no problem at all’ on 26%.
The respondents on the ‘No’ side were actually quite adamant in their responses.
Typical of the answers I got were “How does the fuel station, the supermarket or your landlord feel about freebies? If you don’t value your production then why should anyone else?” from Bron I, and “If someone is making money of the fruits of volunteer work it’s a NO from me “, from Terry R. James C was even more blunt; “Pay your actors and pay your crew. They will respect you in your future endeavours. Very simple.”
The direct opposite of this came from Amy T who said “As someone who isn’t studying film in any way and doesn’t really have any film credits, unpaid work is technically essential for me to prove my capability, grow a word of mouth, prove my worth and be credited for it so then I can be paid and become someone in the industry. I definitely have qualifications in other areas but I need to prove how they can translate, free work gives me the opportunity”.
And from Shane McL, “Any student film or low budget (say under 10k) I think it’s fine because the money just isn’t there to spend. It’s also not going to reap thousands in profits so everyone is making a sacrifice. You could ask for profit share though on the off chance it does become a raging success. Otherwise it’s really a learning experience for the actors and crew and a chance to get some credits and maybe some showreel footage.”
Those voting conditionally had this sort of thing to suggest, “I see no problem at all, on the condition it is clearly stated it is an unpaid job. It is then a free choice whether to respond or note.” from Dave H.
Nick W was a little more expansive with “You should always try to find money for your cast and crew. Whether it be saving up from your paycheck or getting a loan your cast and crew are the only reason why the film will be made. If you have a group of friends who are all contributing to the story and want to have something to get them started out that is one thing. But if you are looking for experienced crew so that your film is successful then you should always do your best to find the money to pay them a base rate of at least $125 a day.”
So, it appears that in general, as long as you clearly communicate your stance when asking for a crew and actors, the majority are willing to assist for little or no recompense.
What came through strongly though was this was very conditional as long as a) as the owner, you show you believe in the project and have the ability to pass that enthusiasm to your cast and crew, and b) you are not simply taking advantage of people to satisfy your own ego to make a film.
One thing is for sure; the scene in way too small in Australia to get away with the latter for long. If you dud someone, everyone will know about it very, very quickly.
What’s your thoughts on the matter? Leave a reply in the comments below.
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