Ready, Set, Action! Organization in Film Production - Analyzed from the perspective of project-based organizations and culture producing organizations and illustrated through displays of group dynamics, power and leadership

Abstract

This thesis focus on organization and management in film production, analyzed through the perspective of project-based organizations, as well as the perspective of film/culture producing organizations. The analysis is based on previous research in the fields mentioned above, and empirical data collected through three interviews; one truly in depth, and two more brief, with professionals working in film production, both in front and behind the camera in different positions in the hierarchy, as well as a student of film art. The analysis is conducted with the two different perspectives described above, by analyzing three features found to be ever present in both the field of management as well as in this particular field; group dynamics, power and leadership. The thesis shows the vital importance of film workers having excellent social skills, necessary for dealing with the job uncertainty, short-term way of working, conflict management and securing future employment. Hierarchy is a large part of organization in film production, with many levels of middle management. In addition film production is characterized by individual work where problem solving is vital for maintaining one’s reputation. Leadership is particularly difficult as it is a balancing act between administrative and artistic duties and different leadership approaches for different occupations. This thesis concretizes and defines organization in film production and all the implications the complex nature of the organization have for those working in film.