Independent Filmmaker’s Guide to Film Production Non-Disclosure Agreements

Let’s face it, you work hard for your money. You spend countless hours working on the fundamentals of your business and you certainly don’t want just anyone to be able to take what you’ve worked so hard for and claim it as their own. But people hear and see things that could be sacred to […]
How to Avoid Copyright Infringement in Film Productions

Are you a new filmmaker that’s just learning the ropes of film production? Are you a screenwriter that’s trying to take all necessary precautions to avoid copyright infringement in film projects that you’re involved in? As a filmmaker, much of the time spent collaborating on projects is focused on taking the necessary steps to avoid […]
Independent Filmmaker’s List of Crew and Talent Release Forms for Filming

As an independent filmmaker, the crew and talent release forms that you must include in your chain of title are vital to both ensuring that you can obtain E&O insurance and for distribution. In fact, crew and talent release forms for filming are required in order to capture footage of a performer and use it […]
Identifying Film Copyright Protection for Found Footage Projects

As a new filmmaker, you might be considering the creation of a found footage film in which you are going to use existing motion picture projects to create your own, new film. If you’re wondering what the process is in identifying film copyright protection for found footage projects, you’re not alone! Many new filmmakers embark […]
An Indie Filmmaker’s Guide to Pre-Sale Distribution Agreements

As an independent filmmaker you’ve probably encountered many situations in which you’ve attempted to secure financing for your production ahead of actually scheduling your shoot. Most independent film producers have to take special measures to find and secure adequate financing for the projects they’re in and will do whatever it takes to fully cover the […]
Deconstructing the Film Crew Deal Memo: What’s Inside and What Does it Mean?

The film crew deal memo is a unique employment contract which represents the agreements and underlying expectations initiated by the film production company and the film crew. Outlining each of the key terms or agreements that are initiated between the film crew and the production company or producer, the film crew deal memo aims to […]
Is an Actor Release Form for Short Film Required & What’s Included?

Signed actor release forms are a staple in the film industry, and whether you’re producing a feature film or a short film doesn’t matter. If you’re considering a short film project but you’re wondering whether you should actually obtain an actor release form for short film projects that you’re working on, you’ve definitely come to […]
Preparing for Pilot Season in Film Industry Fashion

Pilot season represents a unique and exciting time for film industry professionals, but it’s also a very busy time. The typical pilot season in film industry standards is certainly active. There’s always the potential for dozens of different networks to produce new shows and, for the filmmaker, this means an increase in production of all […]
Understanding Your Film Rights Purchase Agreement

When it comes to purchasing the rights to produce a film, you’re going to face a lot of paperwork and individual requirements for negotiations. Generally, before you can enter a film rights purchase agreement between yourself and the original copyright owner of a book or other work. Three will be some essential negotiations involving things […]
What is an “Accredited Investor” for Film & What Does it Mean?

Securing adequate financing for your film is certainly one of the most challenging tasks you’ll face throughout the course of production. Whether you’re entirely new to the industry, or you’ve been involved in the film industry for quite some time, you’re going to have to know the rules of investment financing and what the various […]