Film Fixer vs Production Company: What International Crews Actually Need

A practical guide for foreign film, documentary, journalism and media teams planning a shoot in Bangladesh.

When planning a shoot in Bangladesh, international crews often ask: “Do we need a film fixer or a production company?”

The confusion is common – and choosing the wrong setup can lead to legal complications, access issues, budget overruns or stalled production. This guide explains the real difference and helps you choose what your project actually needs.

Film fixer coordinating documentary shoot in Bangladesh

What Is a Film Fixer?

A film fixer is a local professional who enables foreign crews to operate legally, safely and efficiently on the ground.

  • Filming permits and authority coordination
  • Media and journalist visa guidance
  • Access to sensitive or restricted locations
  • Local logistics, transport and scheduling
  • Language and cultural interpretation
  • On-ground problem solving

Film fixers are essential for documentaries, journalism, NGO filming, investigative reporting and location-heavy shoots in Bangladesh.

Film production company shooting with camera and lights in Bangladesh

What is a Production Company?

A production company focuses on the creative execution and technical delivery of a film or video project.

  • Direction and creative development
  • Cinematography and lighting
  • Sound recording and art direction
  • Equipment and crew management
  • Post-production (editing, grading, sound design)

Production companies are essential for commercials, branded films, corporate videos and scripted content.

Film Fixer vs Production Company: Key Differences

  • Film Fixer: Access, permits, logistics and compliance
  • Production Company: Creative execution and filming
  • Film Fixer: Prevents problems before they occur
  • Production Company: Delivers the final visual output
International film crew working with local team in Bangladesh

What International Crews Actually Need

Most international productions do not need to choose one or the other - they need the right combination based on project type.

  • Documentaries & Journalism: Film fixer (mandatory)
  • NGO & Development Films: Fixer + logistics support
  • Commercial & Branded Content: Production company + fixer
  • Complex or sensitive shoots: Integrated support

Learn more about our Film Fixer Services in Bangladesh and International Production Support .

Libanza Films team providing production support on set in Bangladesh

Why International Crews Choose Libanza Films

  • Integrated fixer and production support
  • Experience with international clients and broadcasters
  • Compliance-first and risk-aware workflows
  • Nationwide filming capability across Bangladesh
  • One accountable partner instead of multiple vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a film fixer replace a production company?

No. A film fixer handles access, permits and logistics, not creative execution or filming.

Do all foreign crews need a fixer in Bangladesh?

Yes. Especially for documentaries, journalism, NGO and location-sensitive projects.

Can Libanza Films provide both services?

Yes. We offer integrated support for film fixers and production companies within a single team.

Which is more cost-effective?

Fixer services are generally more cost-efficient and project-specific, while production companies are required for full creative execution.

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