Above-the-Line
Creative personnel whose deals are negotiated before production—typically writers, directors, producers, and lead talent.
Definition
Above-the-line costs encompass creative leadership: writers, directors, principal cast, and creative producers. These costs are budgeted separately from physical production expenses.
The designation reflects deal timing and creative significance. Above-the-line talent is packaged and negotiated during development, determining project viability.
Why It Matters
Above-the-line costs typically represent 20-40% of budgets for major productions. These costs are negotiated first and often determine whether projects proceed.
For talent, above-the-line status brings deal precedence and creative influence beyond compensation.
Examples in Practice
A studio project might have $30 million above-the-line including $10 million for an A-list lead, $5 million director fee, and $15 million for producers and writers.
Independent films often minimize above-the-line costs to maximize production value on screen.