Dear Dr. Film, What is the difference between a producer and an executive producer? It may be easier for God to number the hairs on our head, than to keep track of producers in Hollywood. Literally, anyone can print a business card and calls themself a producer. But amidst all the talk, very few people demonstrate the combination of skills necessary to produce a film. Years ago, a single producer oversaw a movie from conception through production and distribution. But as film financing has gotten riskier and costlier, the number of producers has multiplied. The producer's job begins with securing the rights to the story. They will often develop the script, hiring screenwriters until the studio or stars are satisfied. Producers also become the primary salesperson for the film, finding financial backing. They will most likely be involved with hiring key cast and crew members. They may also oversee the physical production of the movie. On the set, they serve as firefighters, often resolving conflicts between the director, the stars, and the studio. Producers must act as cheerleaders and peacemakers. The title of "executive producer" is usually reserved for people on the financial side of the production. They may have supplied a piece of the funding or been in the position to greenlight the movie for the studio. They must be willing to assume huge financial risks. A star's manager may demand the title in exchange for securing their client's acting services. The executive producer may never set foot on the set during the film's production. But they will undoubtedly be at the premiere, smiling on the red carpet, taking credit for the film's success. To make matters even more confusing, on television programs, the executive producer oversees the entire production. They are also known as "showrunners." They will manage the creative vision from episode to episode. And they may also make sure the show stays on budget and on schedule. They wear many hats and therefore deserve the lofty title, "Executive Producer." Dr. Film earned his title, by writing the new book, Into the Dark: Seeing the Sacred in the Top Films of the 21st Century (link to amazon.com) Dr. Film blogs at www.conversantlife.com.