Below the Line (BTL) Cost refers to all production costs excluding major creative talent expenses (Above the Line – ATL). These costs cover the technical crew, equipment, locations, post-production, marketing, and other physical production expenses.
Key Characteristics of Below the Line Cost
- BTL costs are typically fixed or hourly wages for crew members.
- Covers all three stages of filmmaking – pre-production, production, and post-production.
- Includes expenses for sets, props, equipment rentals, VFX, and publicity.
Below the Line Cost Includes
Crew & Personnel
- Technical Team: Director of Photography (DOP), Assistant Directors, Sound Engineers, Makeup Artists, Costume Designers, Line Producer, etc.
- Support Crew: Gaffer, Grip, Boom Operator, Set Designers, Carpenters, Unit Production Manager, etc.
- Post-Production & VFX: Editor, Visual Effects Team, Sound Mixer, Colorist, etc.
- Music & Publicity: Composers, Music Licensing, Marketing, Advertising.
Equipment & Production Expenses
- Equipment Rentals – Cameras, lighting, sound gear, generators.
- Location Costs – Rentals, permits, travel.
- Props & Set Construction – Scenic design, wardrobe, makeup.
Example of Below the Line Cost
| Particular | Cost (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Camera Rent | 50,00,000 |
| Crew Salaries (BTL) | 20,00,000 |
| Location Rent & Permits | 20,00,000 |
| Music Rights & Licensing | 60,00,000 |
| Publicity & Marketing | 35,00,000 |
| Total | 16,70,00,000 |
BTL vs. ATL Costs
- Above the Line (ATL) → Covers creative talent like Director, Actors, Writers, Producers.
- Below the Line (BTL) → Covers technical crew, equipment, locations, post-production, and marketing.
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