Development includes finding and acquiring material to produce, and attaching the above-the-line talent--the writer, director and main actors.
The producer either approaches a film studio to finance the film's complete budget, or she tries to secure production financing through independent sources as well as negotiating all contractual obligations for the film.
Producers are responsible for hiring a line producer and all of the department heads, who then select the film's crew.
Producers oversee every aspect of the production process, including keeping the production on schedule and on budget, and hiring and firing staff as necessary.
Producers take part in the editing process and keep the film on track while constantly ensuring the director's vision is being realized.
Producers work with the distributor's marketing department to ensure that the film will get as wide a release as possible.