Cost Reports for Producers

Learn how to read, interpret, and respond to cost reports with confidence—no accounting experience required.

Cost reports are one of the most essential financial tools in film and TV production. As a producer, knowing how to read a cost report helps you stay on budget, make informed decisions, and communicate effectively with your team and financiers.

In this practical, jargon-free course, you’ll learn how cost reports are structured, what the key numbers mean, and how to spot red flags early. We’ll walk you through the top sheet, detail sheet, and forecast columns—so you can track actuals, commitments, and the estimated final cost (EFC) without stress.

You’ll also discover how to prepare for weekly cost report meetings, what to do when a department goes over budget, and how to stay proactive without micromanaging your team. Whether you’re producing a short film, indie feature, or high-end TV, this course will help you feel more confident managing production finances.

Perfect for producers, line producers, or production managers looking to sharpen their budgeting skills and better understand how to use cost reports in real time.