Which budget category includes crew, equipment, and locations?

• A. Above-the-Line (ATL)
• B. Marketing
• C. Post-Production
• D. Below-the-Line (BTL)

Answer: (D)

In budgeting, crew, equipment, and locations fall under the production costs, which are categorized as Below-the-Line. This category covers the on-set, day-to-day costs needed to actually shoot the film—the crew who operate the camera and lights, the gear rented or purchased, and the locations rented or secured, along with related costs like sets and props.

In contrast, Above-the-Line covers the creative talent and key decision-makers, such as the director, writers, and principal actors, whose fees are typically negotiated upfront and aren’t tied to the day-to-day shooting costs. Marketing is a separate line item focused on promoting the finished film. Post-production costs can be handled in various budgeting schemes, but the items in question clearly align with Below-the-Line.