SAG DGA IATSE WGA PGA

Film unions are good and bad for films. SAG, DGA, IATSE, WGA and PGA all are good for films because they create a clear set of rules and payment so everyone knows the rules. They are also good for films because they signal an expected level of quality of worksmanship (although this doesn't always ring true). The downside to union films is that they increase the cost of wages and the clearly stated union work rules can work against a film producer when they are trying to save money. Producing is all about making choices- shoot on a soundstage or on location? hire another production assistant or spend more on set design?

If the choice is which guild for your film to become a signatory, here is a guide. Keep in mind that all of these unions and guilds have different wage scales depending on the budget of your film (micro level, low budget level, medium budget, high budget). If you still must choose, I suggest the following rational:

Ask yourself what kind of film you are making. If it is a special effect heavy horror film or action film, it is probably wiser to make sure that you have a strong director and strong crew so the special effects and stunts look as real as possible.

If you are making a drama or musical, you want to hire the best actors and director because audiences and film critics will evaluate your film first and foremost based on the actors' performances.

Thrillers are tricky because they usually require great performances (remember Keiser Soseh in "The Usual Suspect") and some action. Overall, thrillers require great directors, actors, writing, and crew to pull off the film. The challenge is to keep it under budget. Try limiting your shooting locations while avoiding a direct-to-dvd "always inside" feel.

Visit here for a For more information, see movie budget guidelines on how much to budget for film producers, writers, directors, crew, and actors.

-Adam