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They can be involved in everything from overseeing the script, to bringing talent (actors, directors, producer) on board, hiring the crew, monitoring production, providing notes during post-production, and can even be a part of resolving any legal concerns or marketing the project.ĭrake compares his EP approach to being like “a fancy version of a line producer.” He likes to be the go-to person for the financial, logistical, and creative aspects of a project. Lastly, if an EP is overseeing the making of a film or television series, they can be a critical part of several elements of production. If an EP is involved in developing a project, that typically means they have nurtured an original story idea, acquired adaptation rights to existing material, purchased a script, or paired themselves with A-level talent to work on a narrative they’ll try to sell to studios. Sometimes, instead, they work towards securing funding, approving and monitoring budgets with producers and line producers, and liaising with financiers where needed. However, an EP doesn’t always directly fund a project. If an executive producer is financing the film, then it’s pretty simple: their bank account becomes the production’s. You can do one, two, or all of those things at once.” What do those three roles look like in action? “You are either paying for it, had a hand in developing it (or are partnered with a talent who did), or make it. “Basically, you're either one of three roles,” explains Drake.

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We spoke with executive producer Mike Drake ( The Whole Nine Yards, A Simple Favor, Just Mercy) about what an EP does and how to be a successful one – especially when faced with the need for greater social responsibility. What’s more, with Hollywood’s push towards greater diversity, equity, and inclusion, the significance of their role requires an evolution to see better representation on screen and behind it. The role can, however, sometimes be an unclear and complicated one for those not in the know. Executive producers have been frequently called the CEO of a film or television production, because of the significant role they play in steering the direction of a project.