The Feature Film Distribution Deal: A Critical Analysis of the Single Most Important Film Industry Agreement

by John W. Cones

Book Overview

John W. Cones, whose real goal is to stimulate a long-term film industry reform movement, shows how the financial control of the film industry in the hands of the major studios and distributors actually translates into creative control of the industry.

Cones discusses the pros and cons of the debate relating to the industry's so-called net profit problem and the way in which the distribution deal plays an integral part in that problem. He...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0809320827
• ISBN13: 9780809320820
• Release Date: December 1996
• Publisher: Southern Illinois University Press
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A must-read

Though a little dated (not much has changed in the film industry), The Feature Film Distribution Deal is a must-read for every producer and every newly minted entertainment lawyer. The author, a practising entertainment lawyer) covers typical/standard/boilerplate film industry deal contracts as issued by the big studios/distributors, and explains practically every line/item in them, and the definitions of the many contract terms. BTW, ALL the terms of these contracts are rigged to screw independent producers out of net profit participaiton profits. Then the author offers 'counter' negotiating points and the reasoning/arguments behind them. He does state that success in using these counterproposals/arguments is limited due to the 'balance of power' between big studios and independent producers is tilted heavily in favour of the big studios. The appendices are four distribution deal contracts. They're well worth the read, too, if only to familiarise oneself with them. It is NOT a book to read quickly, but one to be read thoughtfully, to absorb and to learn the legal and business concepts in the contracts. The structure of each chapter makes this easy to do.

Encyclopedia of Bad Film Studio Business Practices

If you are mystified by "Hollywood accounting," this legal expose outlines over 80 clauses commonly found in feature film distribution contracts that might be considered unconscionable or immoral, revealing the formidible odds facing the "talent" side of the industry. A thorough explanation of why there's no "net" profit, and a sobering dose of reality for any creative person who believes they should be paid for making a good product. The introduction lists the LA DA's Office among those who should read it.