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Takes
Insight + analysis on indie film legal issues
Do WGA writer-producers have to cross picket lines to keep working for the studios as producers during the strike?
Most major studios recently informed WGA writer-producers that work done in a “producer” capacity is still required despite the ongoing writers’ strike. But is the position taken by the studios a correct interpretation of this aspect of the WGA Minimum Basic Agreement? Probably not.
Continue readingDeepFocus to speak on entertainment law at University of Oregon School of Law intellectual property panel
DeepFocus Entertainment Law founder Dane E. Johnson will speak on a panel session at the University of Oregon School of Law titled, “Entertainment Law Q&A”. The panel will be held in Eugene, Oregon on April 7, 2023, from 12 to 2pm PST.
Continue readingFilmmakers + Friends
Nothing keeps your project moving forward like momentum, and regularly sharing updates with other indie producers, directors, screenwriters, and more is a great way to get it. Join this month’s DeepFocus Entertainment Law virtual gathering. Bring your own coffee and talk film finance, business and legal affairs, whatever you want to share with other industry professionals about your productions or scripts.
Continue readingFour ways to find the money to make movies.
Unless you’re shooting a Super 8 short, your film likely needs financing. It’s the difference between cinematic dreams and reality, so raising money may be the most important aspect of making movies. But how do you go beyond Indiegogo? The path to funded production can seem like one giant snarl. Here are a few key components to plan a professional indie film:
Continue readingAnatomy of an independent film business plan.
Planning is key to the successful development, production, release, and profitability of independent films. As an indie filmmaker, you’re in the business of making and selling a product that just happens to involve entertainment. Like any entrepreneur, your business plan should be considered essential. You wouldn’t start making a movie without a shooting script. Probably not without storyboards or some other form of pre-visualization of your shots. Think of your film business plan the same way.
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