Film Production Cost Calculator
Budget feature and narrative film productions across above-the-line talent, physical shooting days, camera gear packages, location permits, post-production finishing, and completion contingency.
Production Schedule & Cast
Daily Physical Production Rates
Post-Production, Legal & Contingency
Film Production Comprehensive Budget Formula
Total Film Budget = (Pre-Production + Principal Photography + Post-Production + Legal/Insurance + Other) × (1 + Contingency % / 100)- Pre-Production: Screenplay option/rights, director prep, storyboards, casting director, and key crew scouting.
- Principal Photography: Director, principal cast, background actors, key crew day rates, camera/lighting truck rental, stage/location permits, and catering.
- Post-Production: Offline editing, sound design, ADR, Foley, orchestral score/licensing, color grade, and DCP mastering.
- Contingency: Standard 10%–15% reserve required by completion guarantors and equity financiers.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
How to Use This Calculator
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard contingency percentage for an indie film?
Most independent film budgets carry a 10% contingency on below-the-line costs. Bonded productions working with bank financing or SAG-AFTRA guarantee agreements often require 10% to 15% to buffer against weather delays, reshoots, or overtime.
What is the difference between Above-the-Line and Below-the-Line costs?
Above-the-Line (ATL) encompasses literary property rights, screenplay acquisition, producers, director, and principal starring cast. Below-the-Line (BTL) covers physical production crew (camera, lighting, sound, art, grip), equipment rentals, catering, locations, transportation, and post-production editorial.
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