Film budgets mystify outsiders, but the line items follow predictable patterns. Breaking down a typical mid-size Hindi film reveals where the crores actually go.

Above the line

Star and director fees remain the largest chunk, often crossing half the budget for commercially driven projects. Producers increasingly tie portions of fees to box-office performance.

Production and post

Shoot costs, locations, action choreography, and visual effects form the next block. Post-production, from editing to surround mixing, quietly consumes more than newcomers expect.

Release costs

Prints and advertising can add a third to the total, while interest on financing accrues with every delay. Veterans say controlling the calendar is controlling the budget.