What is a High Production Value?
In the movie industry, the quality of a film is referred to as “production value.” Generally, films with a higher budget will have a high production value, because of the greater investment of resources. It is the goal of most movie makers to make films which are stylish, attractive, and use high quality special effects in combination with exotic locations. These high production value films can be quite costly to make, representing a major gamble on the part of potential investors.
In some cases, films are deliberately made with a low production value, because the campy aspect of cheap movies is enjoyed in some genres. “B Movies,” as they are called, are characterized by unrealistic special effects, poor continuity, and grainy film. In some cases, these films are enjoyable to watch and often fun to make as well. Low budget film making is an art form, and especially in 1990s when individuals could easily record and distribute video media, it became quite popular.
However, most cinema goers expect a high production value when they go to the movies, and as a result Hollywood directors make an effort to achieve realistic looking effects and sophisticated camera shots. Big budget films such as the James Bond movies use unique locations, stellar special effects, and sophisticated technology to achieve a crowd pleasing film. In addition, many big name actors will increase the production value of a film.
Many low budget film makers work to achieve the look of high production value, either by investing a great deal of resources in one or two scenes, or using various tricks of the trade to enhance the quality of the movie. These tricks include playing with camera angles, relying on a strong script, using lesser known character actors, and integrating unique lighting techniques. Using old skills in a novel way can support the appearance of high production value, making the film ultimately more appealing to investors.
In order for a film to succeed commercially, it usually requires a high production value unless the film makers have made a conscious artistic decision to go for the look of a low production value film. As a result, potential producers and investors like to be assured that the movie they are financing will have a high production value, resulting in a major return at the box office. Many film makers provide investors with a proof of concept, showing how the movie will be presented and how novel techniques will be used to provide the feel of high production value. This is often the case with movies that rely heavily on digital elements.
Ultimately, high production value is the result of a combination of factors, including a strong script, good acting, cinematography, and special effects. A determined film maker can make an excellent film in a basement with the right techniques, although the millions of dollars behind big budget movies would certainly make it easier.
Written by S.E. Smith
