Introduction

Unlike a poem or a novel, which are usually written by one person (the author or poet) with the help of others (editor), film is a much more collaborative medium. In order to create the final product, hundreds of people are required to work together. Here is a basic outline of the main people involved in making a film:



The most important member of the filmmaking process is the **director**. He/she is the person who has the overall //vision// of what the film will look like, what the main message or idea of the film is, and how the audience is supposed to feel. Ultimately, their role is to make sure the other crew members are able to transmit this vision onto the screen.

Each of the other crew members listed is responsible for key parts of the final film:
 * The cinematographer, the designers (production, set, costume), and the editor(s) all contribute to the final look of the film.
 * The composer(s) and sound engineer(s) control what we hear throughout the film.
 * The writer(s) and actors are in charge of portraying the meaning of the film, both intellectually and emotionally.

In the end, however, everyone has to answer to the director - they have the final say.