Do I Really Need Life Rights Agreements for Film Projects?
As you’re planning out the plot and storyline for your next film, you’re probably wondering if you really need life rights agreements for film projects that you’re currently working on. Filmmakers often wonder about the rights that they need to acquire for the projects they’re working on and whether they can take steps to save […]
The Essential Guide to Navigating Film Production Agreements
The film industry is a competitive environment that is characterized by many different working groups, crew members, and service providers. Whether you’re a business owner that’s seeking a production company from which you can order a 30-second commercial from or you’re an investor that’s interested in producing a feature motion picture, you’re bound to find […]
Everything You Need to Know about Film Investment Regulation
Film investments have long been known for being incredibly risky. Many investors have been cheated or otherwise have lost out by investing in films that were probably never poised for distribution in the first place. As such, film investment regulation, including the protection of the SEC and other regulatory groups have become quite prominent. In […]
Understanding Your Short Film Production Agreement
Whenever you enter an agreement with a film production company, you’re stating that you understand and agree with the terms and conditions that are stipulated within the legally binding document. The typical short film production agreement includes pertinent information about your short film project. And the production services that you have requested from a production […]
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 […]