FILM SCREEN CREDITS: Understanding The Basics
source: musicgateway.com
Credit allocation in film is a complex and often contentious issue, with disputes over who deserves what credit and in what order.
Credits not only acknowledge the contributions of key players but also have significant implications for professional reputation, influence, and financial compensation.
Below, we’ll explore the various types of film credits, why they matter, and offer insights from screenwriting and film production experts on how each credit functions within the industry.
Types of On-Screen Film Credits
1. Logo Credit
The logo credit, usually animated, appears at the start of a film, showcasing the branding of the distributor and possibly other financiers or production companies. For instance, Universal’s globe and Paramount’s mountain logo are well-known examples that provide an immediate association with the production's funding sources.
2. Presentation Credit
Following the logo, the presentation credit typically acknowledges the distributor. This credit often reads, “Presented by [Distributor]” or “[Distributor] Presents,” establishing the company’s role in bringing the film to audiences. Distributors like Warner Bros. and Sony use presentation credits to reinforce their contribution to the project’s distribution.
3. “In Association With” Credit
This credit is used when an associated company, such as a production house or a secondary financier, contributed to the film but isn’t the primary distributor. An “In Association With” credit signals valuable support, though without the prominence of a presentation credit.
4. “Film By” Credit
Directors may receive a possessory credit, often reading “A Film By [Director],” signifying the director’s creative vision as central to the film. This credit, highly coveted in the industry, implies a significant level of artistic control. As noted by film expert John Truby, “The ‘Film By’ credit is the ultimate nod to a director's influence, encapsulating their visual style and narrative voice as foundational to the film's identity.”
5. Production Company Credit
The production company credit, such as “A [Production Company] Production,” acknowledges the entity responsible for overseeing the film’s development and production. This credit often appears in the opening sequence, though more than one production company may be credited, especially in co-productions or projects with multiple backers.
6. Produced By Credit
Reserved for the film’s producers, the “Produced By” credit highlights individuals who managed the film’s overall production process—from securing a script to coordinating talent. Recognized as essential to a film’s creation, producers also accept the Academy Award for Best Picture, though the number of producers credited on stage is limited to three by the Academy. Producers often face significant competition for this credit, given its high industry value.
7. Executive Producer Credit
The “Executive Producer” credit usually denotes individuals or entities responsible for sourcing or providing financing. While traditionally reserved for financial backers, this credit may also go to individuals in charge of significant production components or prominent industry figures lending their influence. Executive producer credits are particularly relevant when complex financing structures are involved, as they acknowledge the indispensable financial contributions to the project’s success.
8. Associate Producer and Co-Producer Credits
These credits often serve as catch-all acknowledgements for individuals who provided essential support but may not fit the criteria for producer or executive producer roles. Associate and co-producer credits might go to assistants, second-unit directors, or key contributors who provided support outside of traditional production roles. These credits often appear in the end titles, indicating their supportive yet valuable contributions.
9. Writing Credits
Writing credits may include several distinctions:
“Based on the Book By” acknowledges source material.
“Written By” credits the screenplay’s author.
“Story By” identifies the original story creator.
“Screenplay By” credits the screenplay writer.
For Writers Guild of America (WGA) members, writing credits adhere to specific guidelines under the WGA Basic Agreement. This means that, in cases of disputes over writing credits, a binding WGA arbitration process determines credit allocation. Screenwriting expert Syd Field emphasizes, “Writers’ credits can often make or break a career, especially in an industry that respects the storytelling foundation as critical to a film’s success.”
10. Directed By Credit
The “Directed By” credit goes to the director, affirming their role as the film’s principal visionary. This credit is often one of the final ones shown before the film’s opening scene, underscoring the director’s primary role in shaping the film.
Key Terminology in Film Credits
Main Title vs. End Credits: “Main title” credits appear at the beginning of the film, or, in some cases, just before the end credits. End credits, typically rolling at the end, list the full crew and cast. Though the primary credits hold significant value, end credits acknowledge the broader team responsible for the film's completion.
Separate vs. Shared Card: Credits on a “separate card” display only one name or entity at a time, underscoring its importance. “Shared card” credits feature multiple names or entities simultaneously, a common practice in large ensemble or high-collaboration projects.
Key Art and Paid Ad Credits: A “key art” credit appears on promotional posters, while a “paid ad” credit ensures mention in various forms of advertising, such as theater posters or marketing trailers. Marketing credits increase visibility and brand association for those credited, contributing to their professional reputation.
Position: Placement of a credit, either “above title” (before the title) or “below title” (after), significantly impacts its visibility. Lead actors and top talent often negotiate for “above title” placement, a detail frequently specified in contracts along with text size and formatting guidelines.
Enforcement and Contractual Provisions
Contracts often specify the obligations of distributors and production companies to display credits as agreed. In cases of disputes, standard contractual clauses might prevent distribution halts, limiting recourse to forward-looking adjustments on future prints. This approach prevents costly delays, though it may limit damages or restitution if errors occur. For example, contracts might specify that credit adjustments apply only to subsequent prints, without affecting earlier versions, and exclude compensation for “inadvertent failures” to include credits as specified.
Film industry veteran Michael Weise points out, “Credits are often fiercely negotiated because they signify not just acknowledgment but authority. Clear credit agreements can prevent disputes down the line, allowing contributors to feel recognized for their work.”
Understanding film credits and their importance to the professionals involved can be crucial for navigating the industry successfully. By appreciating the significance and variety of credits, filmmakers can better structure their contributions, negotiate their roles effectively, and ensure they receive proper acknowledgement for their work.
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