the commissioning process

1. The Commissioning Process
By Rebecca Osborne

2. What is the commissioning process?
The commissioning process is the process of an idea
being taken or changed. The idea is presented to a
production company such as the Film4. Depending
on where you want you film to be commissioned the
process may vary, but all are rather similar. I am
going to be conducting research into Film4 and
seeing how they commission films.

3. Film4 Commissioning Process
Film4 are a production company which develops and co-finances feature length films for
theatrical release in cinemas, they do also show films on TV but not all films are
specifically for TV.
They state that they choose from a various range of subject matters but they do prioritise
stories that are concerned with British cultural.
They also look for films that push the boundaries this means that they like to create
something different and diverse.
They choose not to produce films for families which means this will be ideal for my film as
it will be aimed more at teenagers.
The process of commissioning:
 An agent or producer needs to submit the idea to Film4.
 Need to submit a proposal through a registered production company.
 You have to email the company for more information.
 They will reply requesting to see part of your script.
 They will reply letting you know if you are successful and ask you to submit more of
your script.
 They will then call you in for a meeting and they will discuss the idea further this is
where you have to persuade the business to want to commission the idea.
 Once your idea is successful Film4 will help to produce the film and then release it in
cinemas and then it will be released on to their TV channel.

4. Pros and Cons of being commissioned by
Film4:
Pros:
 You can get your film released within cinemas and on their TV channels
which are already well known and successful.
 They like to receive different ideas which means less generic production
teams can go forward.
 They do not prioritise film genres meaning there is more variety.
Cons:
 They prefer films based on British culture.
 They do not produce family films.
 You need to have an agent and an established production company.
 They receive a high volume of entries so it may be less likely yours will be
accepted.
Overall Film4 is a good company to be commissioned by as they are an
established business that can guarantee your film being successful, although it
does have some restrictions.
http://www.channel4.com/info/commissioning/4producers/film4

5. BFI Funding Process
Films also need to receive funding and the BFI is a company that funds
films, they do this by using lottery funds this helps them to develop
films, distribute and produce them. The business doesn't have a lot of
influence over the idea which is ideal and more appealing. The
process:
 Complete an online application.
 Submit written proposals, one creative and strategic.
 They will reply within 8 weeks either rejecting or accepting the idea.
 They will then have a meeting where all members of the production
team have to attend.
 The funding of the film will then be decided and the BFI will send a
letter of intent.
 The production company will then enter an agreement with the BFI
and set out the term and conditions of their funding.
 The funding will be received and the film can go into production.
http://www.bfi.org.uk/supporting-uk-film/funding-filmmakers

6. Pros and Cons of being funded by the BFI:
Pros:
 It allows first time film makers to be funded.
 There is a termination provision.
 There is no influence over your idea.
 They can provide you with a large amount of funding £100,000.
Cons:
 They do not fund shot films.
 Must have a producer and director already.
 You need to provide other finance to the film.
 Has to be based in Britain.
 Has to be fictional or documentary.
 Need to provide the BFI with a net profit share.
Overall the BFI is a safe and reliable way to get funded as they can provide the
company with a large sum of money, they have no influence over the idea like
many other funding bodies do, and they help to develop your film further.