Costs of distribution, prior and from sales

[pulp]

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with this. It seems like most distributors put a lot of cost on a film that is taken from sales until the costs are paid, at which point the filmmaker gets paid, and in most cases these costs are never made back.

I have a contract from a distributor stating an amount we would pay before it is distributed, and the various costs taken from sales. I'm wondering if anyone has an idea of what is reasonable.

 

[mainstreetprod]

The general idea is to put some kind of cap on expenses in that type contract. Many times, if you ask, you can get a royalty deal. It's a smaller percentage, (15-30%) but you make money on EVERY sale. To me, it's well worth it, as it insures you will get paid something, even if sales are low.

Distributors are notorious for the kind of contracts you are talking about and that is what you will get if you don't ask. Often filmmakers who sign this type contract never see a dime, unless sales are spectacular and all the expenses are covered.