How to Check a Movie Producer's Credentials

You're sitting in a cafe hard at work on your screenplay when suddenly you strike up a conversation with a guy. Turns out, he's a big wig producer and he wants to read your script. That example certainly illustrates how you can be an overnight success in Hollywood. But before you send him your script, here's how to check out that movie producer's credentials.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Research the names of the movies that the producer claims to have produced. This can be done by stopping at any local video store and checking the back of the movie box (where most producers are listed) to hopping around the Internet on one of the million entertainment themed sites. If in fact the producer's name is listed, then it seems that you just might be on to something.
2. Cross-reference the movie producer with someone else who has intimate knowledge of the production. Something that many people don't realize is that earning a producer, executive producer or associate producer credit on a movie can happen simply because the script passed through your hands. For instance, a movie studio options the life story of a famous rock musician who passed away. His wife now controls the estate. Her lawyer gets her a producer credit (along with some cash) and she releases the rights to the studio. When the movie is made, her name will appear on the screen even though she has nothing to do with the development or making of the movie.
3. Re-check your sources. Remember that it is Hollywood where everyone tries to take credit for everything and knock people in their way down. You might get two totally different tales of what occurred as you ask around. The best thing you can do is double check the sources and trust your gut. If you toss out the producer's name and there seems to be a lot of respect, then it's probably legit. If not, you may have someone who was sidelined in the process.

Tips & Warnings

• The hierarchy of producing credentials is not what you may think. Producer is considered more prestigious than Executive Producer. This is because the Producer is seen as the day-to-day person who put the movie together and made it happen. They're also responsible for being on set. The Executive Producer is seen as the "Godfather" of sorts. They either pool the money or in many cases merely lend their name which has a long tradition and is well established in Hollywood.