At the end of movies there's usually a very long list of credits presented to viewers noting all of the crew and cast involved with creating the movie itself. How are these long lists compiled accurately, as to make sure everyone involved is listed correctly for legal/professional purposes. The list can list over 100 different names at times, and many different titles. Who's job is it to compile that list? How does one know the name of every best boy, production assistant, small-role actor, accountant, makeup artist, and whoever else involved? How are lists such as those verified for accuracy? How long can it take to compile them? If you've done your own, how did you do them? If you know of others who have done them, how did they do theirs?
How do filmmakers achieve this?
- Thread starter AmateurFilmmaker
- Start date
It's just paperwork. If they worked on the film, they get a credit. Doesn't require any sleuthing, just basic organizational skills.
It's usually the responsibility of the 2nd A.D. to sit in the set office and get your name, time in, time out. Give you your Union slips etc.
Ultimately, the producer.
Not always. Many people I know worked on Spider-Man 3, the Avengers, and Captain America Winter Soldier in Cleveland and the majority did not get a credit even though they worked on the movies for weeks.
In some cases (not all), they had much fuller end credits with a lot more names for DVD/home video. The reason for the shorter credits for theatrical is that anything that increases run times, like the names of peons and serfs from Ohio, can be axed so they can show it more times a day, make more money, and continue to urinate on the little people.
In visual effects, each company is typically allocated a number of lines based on how big their contribution to the film was. Often, there are more artists than there are slots. Also, if you work at a small shop the entire crew will be recognized with "Additional Visual Effects by <COMPANY NAME>".
It's a real morale killer if only half of the VFX crew gets their name in the credits.
It's a real morale killer if only half of the VFX crew gets their name in the credits.