How Not To Sign A Film Contract

Know what you’re saying YES to.  

 

Have you ever produced a project from script to screen, and been shut out of the pilot-to-series or short-to-feature deal? Have you ever been stuck in court trying to get your rights back from a bankrupt distributor? Have you ever dealt with talent who won't come on board without an MFN clause? This book is for you!  

 

How Not To Sign A Film Contract provides an overview of many legal issues that independent filmmakers encounter from script to screen. Like any good producer, Roberta takes your hand and walks you step by step through the contracts you need for your film, from your most important contract – the one with yourself – to the ones you’ll create with line producers, crew, talent, and distributors. Featuring interviews and advice from some of indie film’s most successful and influential directors, producers, attorneys, television executives, and distribution experts. 

 

“Probably the best thing that a contract can accomplish for you is making everybody feel respected and protected, because a good contract can help foster trust. That’s the best thing that you can aim for, that I aim for now, and it took me 20 years to figure that out – but this book lays it out for you in an afternoon.”  

-Effie T. Brown, Producer, Project Greenlight 

 

“Too often distributors and filmmakers aren't speaking the same language, and thus filmmakers don't have a clear understanding of all that's possible (or not) for our films. After working so hard to make our films, getting them to audiences is the vital next step, so these kinds of tips are invaluable!” 

-Ondi Timoner, Director, Producer, and two-time Grand Jury Prize winner at Sundance 

 

“This is a relationship-based business, and How NOT to Sign a Film Contract always keeps that at the heart of the message.”  

-Matthew Lessall, Casting Director at Lessall Casting, current Co-President of the Casting Society of America 

 

“How NOT to Sign a Film Contract teaches you to prepare for success and brace for the worst-case scenario. Both are invaluable, because you’re not looking for a fight. You’re looking for everyone to be happy through contractual negotiations.”  

-P. David Ebersole, Writer/Director and Producer