Most of the items on this list are readily available at the end of post-production. It’s really just a matter of someone—aProducer, Post-Production Supervisor, or you—taking the time to prepare these files for backup. Use the list below as your “checklist.”

 

It’s recommended that you try to preserve as many of the files on this list as possible.

 

(Note: Sequential Picture Frames can be DPX, TIF, or EXR)

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1. 2K or 4K ungraded Sequential Picture Frames (if scanned from a film original source, the frames should not be restored/cleaned up)

2. 2K or 4K Sequential Picture Frames and/or MOV of restored and/or graded, with final framing

3. 2K or 4K Sequential Picture Frames and/or MOV of restored and/or graded, full aperture

4. 2K, 4K, or HD mezzanine MOV/MP4 files with specs

5. 2K or 4K DCP—unencrypted only

6. 2K or 4K DCDM (optional)

7. Final sound mix

8. All audio/mix stems

9. M&E mix

10. All textless backgrounds

11. Documents:

    • A READ ME document detailing any relevant tech specs for picture and sound

    • Dialogue and action continuity script

    • Full chain of title (COT) documents

    • Music cue sheet

    • Cue sheets for all third-party licensed elements (photos, video, clips)

    • Abstract of all distribution deals listing the term, territory and any copyright provisions or assignments

    • Production notes and/or press kits

12.  Scans of approved key stills and poster

13. Project files for reference (AVID, Resolve, or Final Cut files)

14. For documentary films: full video interviews of all subjects

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Discuss preparing these files with your Producer, Post-Production Supervisor, and your Post-Production Vendors.