4-Part Class: Step-by-Step Film Budgeting — From Script to Set (Real-World Approach)

 

Get the same budgeting templates, workflows, and production tools used by working producers in today's industry

 

PLEASE NOTE: Although this exclusive Stage 32 class is no longer live and the teacher is not available on email, we highly encourage you to do any assignments to get the most out of the educational experience.

 

Film Budgeting from Script to Set is a four-session class where you'll learn exactly how working producers build, manage, and protect a film budget — from your first script breakdown all the way through real-time cost reporting on set.

No theory. No guesswork. Just the real producer workflow, taught by someone who's done it 70+ times.

Here's what most filmmakers get wrong: they treat budgeting like a math problem. Fill in the template, make the numbers line up — done. But that's not how films get made. A decision during your script breakdown affects your schedule. Your schedule defines your budget. And once you're in production, your ability to track and adjust spending in real time is what keeps the film from falling apart. The cost drivers hiding in plain sight — continuity issues, action sequences, weather-dependent scenes, cast availability conflicts — can quietly blow a budget before day one of the shoot.

That's exactly why you want Michael Wormser teaching this class. Featured as a "Go-To Producer" by Produced By Magazine, Michael has produced features for Legendary, Lakeshore Entertainment, Netflix, and IFC Films, and series for Fox Television Studios, Hulu, FreeForm, and 20th Century Digital. Over 70 projects. Every genre imaginable. He's not teaching theory — he's teaching what actually works on the ground because he's lived it hundreds of times over.

Across four sessions, you'll follow a single project from script to set — breaking down a script beyond just tagging, building a realistic shooting schedule, constructing both a Truth Budget and a Target Budget, and managing cost reporting in real time. You'll walk away knowing how to think like a producer, make smart trade-offs under pressure, and keep your film on track from page one to wrap.

 

Praise For Michael's Teaching on Stage 32:

"I really needed something to level up my filmmaking and producing game and learning from Michael was just the right thing. he's super knowledgeable, cares about his students, and wants everyone to succeed in their endeavors!" - Logan F.

"I'm so glad I got to work with Michael. I thought I knew everything there was before making my first film but boy was I wrong. He really helped me get my production in shape before we started shooting. Thank you!" - Caroline R.

"No matter how experienced you are, getting your passion project made is within your reach. Whether you’re a brand new producer or someone with more experience looking for a refresher or new perspective, Michael will give you the tools you need." - Josh P