Film and TV drama
Also known as: Quicktime producer
When a film or TV drama is made, it has to be made in a variety of different formats; DCP (for cinema), IMF (for streaming platforms) or conventional file or DVD mastering. Part of the work of production is to create these and Quicktime files for reviewing and sharing the film and further sales.
The deliverables producer oversees that process. They work with the film’s post production supervisor to decide the schedule for producing the picture and sound deliverables and what additional material will be included in the delivery, such as bits of footage that weren’t used for the final film. They work with their team to encode video and audio into file-based formats in the most effective way possible. They make sure that the assets are tested and delivered within the agreed budget and on time.
The post-production supervisor will have a close working relationship with the deliverables producer to make sure all formats replicate the master and delivered to relevant distribution companies. The deliverables producer also works with the following:
Quicktime authors import subtitles and put in the chapter points. They create multi-story or multi-angle links and design various menus and buttons.
Compressionists encode and verify the video and audio materials. They use a variety of encoding equipment and software and know the best tools for the job. They will often repeat an encoding process several times to maximise the quality of the image while controlling the size of the specific file that is produced.
QC are responsible for the thorough testing and checking of the final file contents, including video, audio, graphics and subtitles. This work can be split into two: the integrity of the encoded audio and video material has to be checked (this is called AV, QC or runtime QC). Then the navigation and programming of the finished file must be thoroughly tested.
Most deliverables producers will have a background in computer sciences, web design, programming or IT. They generally start their careers as post-production runners, tech assistants or conform editors. Have a look at our post-production runner profile for full details of how to get in.
At school or college:
If you want to go to university, A-levels or Highers in computer science, maths, further maths or physics are useful. Or you might want to take the following Level 3 vocational qualifications:
If you want to go straight into a job or apprenticeship, the following Level 3 vocational qualifications will equip you:
Get an apprenticeship:
Apprenticeships are jobs with training, so they’re a great opportunity to earn as you learn. These are the apprenticeships that might be relevant to the deliverables producer role.
You might be able to find the following degree-level apprenticeships:
Before taking any apprenticeship, check what you’ll be learning with your prospective employer and college, so you can be sure it will be giving you the skills you want. Go to how to become an apprentice to learn how to find apprenticeships in your region or approach companies directly.
Get a degree:
It’s not essential, but you might want one in physics, computer programming or advanced mathematics. Have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in film and TV. We recognise courses with our ScreenSkills Select award where they offer training in the relevant software, dedicated time to building a portfolio and have strong links with the film and TV industries.
Become a trainee:
Apply for ScreenSkills’ Trainee Finder scheme as a post-production trainee.
Working as a video assist operator on a film set.
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