Comprehensive AI-Driven Virtual Production Plan (10-Month Workflow with $200K Budget)

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This plan combines traditional virtual production methods with an AI-powered workflow, ensuring cost-efficiency and timely delivery of a feature film. It leverages Unreal Engine and AI tools to optimize pre-production, production, and post-production processes.

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Phase 1: Script Analysis and Breakdown (Month 1)

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Goal: Define production needs and streamline workflows using AI.

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1. AI Script Analysis:

   • Use AI tools to analyze the script, identifying characters, locations, and scene requirements.

   • Generate shot lists, storyboards, and a preliminary production schedule.

2. Budget Allocation:

   • Finalize the $200,000 budget allocation for pre-production, production, and post-production phases.

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Estimated Cost: $2,000 (AI tools and labor)

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Phase 2: Previsualization and Asset Creation (Months 2-4)

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Goal: Develop detailed visuals and prepare for production.

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1. AI-Driven Previsualization (Months 2-3):

   • Create 3D environments, characters, and animatics using AI.

   • Perform virtual camera blocking and initial scene compositions.
     Cost: $5,000 for AI tools and operator fees.

2. Asset Creation (Concurrent with Previs):

   • Use AI to assist with modeling, texturing, and rigging for props, characters, and environments.

   • Optimize costs by reusing or adapting assets from existing libraries.
     Cost: $15,000 for Unreal Engine specialists and AI asset development.

3. Virtual Set Development (Month 4):

   • Build real-time virtual sets using AI-enhanced tools for lighting and rendering.

   • Integrate motion capture and virtual camera systems.

   • Cost: $20,000 for LED Wall pre-light/load-in days ($11,250/day × 2) and crew.

 

Total Pre-Production Cost: $42,000

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Phase 3: Production (Months 5-6)

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Goal: Film actors on virtual production stages with real-time environments.

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1. Shooting on LED Wall:

   • 5 shooting days using the Unreal Engine + camera tracking package.
     Cost: $15,000/day × 5 days = $75,000.

   • Includes VP Supervisor, Unreal Engine Operator, LED Wall Tech, and playback operator.

2. AI Integration:

   • Dynamically adjust lighting, weather effects, and other elements during production with AI.

3. Support Space & Crew:

   • Budget for support spaces ($2,500) and additional on-set crew ($5,000).

   • G&E/lighting equipment ($500/day × 5 days = $2,500).

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Total Production Cost: $85,000

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Phase 4: Post-Production (Months 7-8)

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Goal: Refine visuals and audio with AI automation.

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1. AI-Assisted Tasks:

   • Automate compositing, rotoscoping, and color grading using AI tools.

   • Refine VFX, sound design, and music scoring.
     Cost: $25,000 for AI tools and operators.

2. Editing and Finishing:

   • Finalize the cut, ensuring quality and continuity.
     Cost: $15,000 for editors and finishing specialists.

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Total Post-Production Cost: $40,000

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Phase 5: Final Polishing and Distribution (Months 9-10)

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Goal: Deliver a polished product and execute marketing strategies.

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1. AI Quality Checks:

   • Use AI for continuity, error detection, and quality enhancement.

   • Optimize final outputs for multiple distribution formats (cinema, streaming).
     Cost: $5,000.

2. Marketing & Distribution:

   • Leverage AI to generate trailers, social media content, and targeted campaigns.
     Cost: $5,000.

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Total Final Phase Cost: $10,000

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BUDGET SUMMARY

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1. Script Analysis = $2,000

2. Pre-Production = $42,000

3. Production = $85,000

4. Post-Production = $40,000

5. Final Polishing/Marketing = $10,000

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Total = $179,000

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CONTINGENCY BUDGET

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Remaining $21,000 for unforeseen expenses or enhancements.

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AI-Powered Efficiency

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This workflow integrates AI tools at every stage, accelerating processes and reducing manual effort. By combining AI innovations with Unreal Engine’s virtual production capabilities, the project maximizes quality while staying within budget.

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