What to Include in a Crew Deal Memo
Formulating a crew deal memo is certainly a tall order. It requires understanding of the important aspects of this valuable contract. Mastering the crew deal memo is all about understanding the important terms that are to be set forth. And what it means for those involved. Stipulations must not favor one or the other, but do you know what to include in a crew deal memo?
The Basics
Before you produce you crew deal memo, consider the basics.
Every crew deal memo must include the basic data regarding the production company, film title, start and end dates, and the position for which the crew is being secured.
Additionally, contact information such as address, phone and email are important.
Compensation
How and when will compensation be provided to the crew? What is the rate of pay?
All of this information should be included in a crew deal memo. As well as details regarding the day rate, hourly rate, or what will happen if overtime is accrued.
Consider whether any special coverage for meals or other provisions will be provided as well.
Terms & Conditions
Formulating a crew deal memo will also require the legal jargon that any contract might technically require. Introducing the terms and conditions of the deal and what the agreement between the two parties means is equally important.
Service Details
Will your deal between the crew and the production company require specific services? Is travel involved? Including the details as to how the shoot will take place, where, and whether travel is required is also important for a crew deal memo.
Production services fees should also be included. Whether it’s security deposits, individual payment terms such as 30 days post or some other window of payment of service. Including it in your crew deal memo is important.
Rental Equipment
Part of your crew deal memo will also include details as to whether any rental equipment is required as part of the production.
Make sure that you negotiate what equipment will be used, what the rental rates will be, and how those will be paid in advance of the final signing of the crew deal memo.
Expenses and Purchases
Finally, make sure that you cover any expenditures and purchases in your crew deal memo. This is your chance to discuss details. Expenses like gas, food, equipment, and other costs that are to be covered as part of the crew deal.
As you can see, there is a lot of important information to cover in a crew deal memo. It’s likely to take some time to outline and formulate just the way you want.
In Summary
It almost certainly will not be ideal to use a pre-fabricated crew deal memo that doesn’t address your individual circumstances.
Therefore, before you sign or otherwise create a crew deal memo. We recommend you work with your legal professional to create the most appropriate contract for your situation.
