Entertainment
Above The Line: Film Budgeting Explained
Discover 'Above The Line' costs in filmmaking—the key creative talent whose salaries are negotiated before principal photography begins.
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What is it?
In film and television production, 'Above The Line' (ATL) refers to the costs associated with the key creative talent responsible for a project's development. This typically includes the screenwriter, producer, director, and principal cast members. These costs are locked in before principal photography starts and are often negotiated as individual deals, sometimes including profit-sharing points. The term delineates these major players from the 'Below The Line' (BTL) crew, which covers the day-to-day production staff, equipment, and logistical expenses.
Why is it trending?
'Above The Line' is a constant topic in showbiz as it's directly tied to a film's star power and budget. Headlines about record-breaking salaries for A-list actors or lucrative deals for acclaimed directors keep the concept in the public eye. As streaming services compete for top-tier talent, these ATL costs are skyrocketing, making budget analysis and discussions about industry economics more relevant than ever.
How does it affect people?
For audiences, the ATL talent is often the primary reason they choose to see a movie; a famous actor or director serves as a major marketing hook. For industry insiders, managing ATL costs is a critical balancing act that can make or break a production's financial viability. These high upfront expenses influence which projects get greenlit, often favoring large-scale blockbusters that are perceived as safer bets to recoup the significant investment in major stars.