Sim1Film contracts
April 30th 2007 06:44
How long is that for?
I once got advice about distribution contracts, ones you sign with American film companies;
it doesn’t really matter what’s in it, they’ll pretty much do what the hell they want because you’re here and they’re over there…
As in; we’re in the US and where the hell are you guys from again?
And that’s all contained in at least 48 pages.
I guess the two most important things to concider if you’re ever offered a contract to distribute your film is; exposure and the length of time.
That is;
One, will I be monetarily libel, whatever happens. Early on in your career you’d be lucky to ever get any money back. Just look at the Blair Witch Project. Sometimes you have to look at your first films as lost-leaders. The hype pays for your next project. But you sure as shit don’t want to end up owing money.
Two, how long am I selling this film for.
I’ve seen a 20/20 contract. That’s 20 years with a 20 year extension. And the extension isn’t an option, the distributor just has to tell you wether or not they want another 20 years. 40 years is a long time to loan out your film.
It’s all down to bargaining. How much go-go have you got to throw round. You get a good deal – you’re a hero. You lose the deal and you’re just another precious film-maker working out of Nanna’s garage.
As long as your film is all your own work (ie you haven’t ripped anyone else’s work off) and you’ve got releases from everyone who worked on the movie (including music) you’ve got the go-go to do a deal and giddy-on up the food chain.
It’s all about moving on and up and always remember the Guerilla film-maker’s motto:
you’re only as good as your next project
Until next time and happy film-making.
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