"What do you mean by active development?"
"How do you differentiate between preparation and pre-production?"
These are questions we've heard from our clients, so we want to share some insight as to how we think about the production timeline.
Development
The project is early in the writing process. Some intellectual property (IP) has been optioned. A feature film was announced. We typically reserve development for projects still in the concept phase.
Active Development
We estimate this project will begin principal photography within 12 months. The project might have a tentative start date or filming location in mind. During active development, a line producer typically isn't hired yet.
Preparation
A line producer has been hired and the project is actively staffing department heads and preparing for pre-production. The production office may not be open yet.
Pre-Production
A production office is open, and the project is actively hiring crew and vendors to work on the production. Filming will begin in the next few weeks or months depending on the project's pre-production schedule.
In Production
Principal photography is underway.
Post-Production
Principal photography has wrapped, and post work continues.
Completed
The production is complete, and no longer needs vendors or crew.
Terminated
The project was ordered, but subsequently was cancelled or didn't proceed.
Your definitions may differ from ours. Let us know about your priority statuses at contact@prodpro.com.