The Producer’s Playbook: How to Make Films and Make Money

Led by experienced producer Harriet Rees, this practical programme combines hands-on workshops, real-world case studies and open discussion with an exclusive studio visit, offering rare insight into how professional productions operate in practice. 

Whether you want to produce independent films, work in television or better understand the business behind the screen, this course gives you a clear, practical foundation. 

Structure and Delivery 

• Practical workshops and masterclasses 

• Case studies drawn from current industry practice 

• Group exercises and peer feedback 

• Guest industry perspectives 

• Studio visit 

• Tools and frameworks you can apply immediately to your own projects 

Outcomes 

By the end of the course, you will: 

• Think and act with a producer’s mindset 

• Understand how to take projects from concept to market readiness 

• Have a clear roadmap for budgeting, financing and packaging 

• Pitch with greater confidence and clarity 

• Build connections with peers and industry professionals 

• Receive a London Film School certificate of completion 

Over five days, you will: 

• Understand the producer’s role across development, pre-production, production, post and distribution 

• Learn how to develop creative ideas into viable, financeable projects 

• Build production budgets and schedules that balance ambition with realism 

• Explore financing models including soft money, tax incentives, equity and co-productions 

• Create compelling pitches and sales materials for investors, festivals and broadcasters 

• Understand rights, contracts and legal essentials every producer must know 

• Develop leadership, risk management and problem-solving skills for real-world productions 

This course is ideal for: 

• Aspiring and emerging producers 

• Directors and writers seeking strong producing literacy 

• Filmmakers who want to understand how films are financed and delivered 

• Creative professionals looking to strengthen their commercial skillset 

No prior producing experience is required. Curiosity, commitment and a willingness to engage with practical challenges are all you need. 

The course has consistently received strong feedback for its clarity, honesty and practical value, with participants highlighting its usefulness across different levels of experience and career stages. 

“The course was extremely useful. Harriet taught me so much more about the industry and many details I had missed. I wish I had done her course sooner. It filled in all the holes in my knowledge.” 

“Harriet’s course is unlike any other producing course I’ve done. She breaks down the technical aspects while sharing personal, honest insights about the realities of producing today.” 

“The course is, quite simply, brilliant. I loved every minute and learnt so much.”