documentary film contracts???

[scorsesefan]

I'm in the initial stages of starting a documentary feature about a musician. I've had a disastrous experience with a narrative feature where we had only an oral contract with the producer. I want to draw up an agreement with the subject of this project stating our respective roles/interest in the project. The film, as planned, will be kept ultra low budget so as to minimize backer/investor interference. I and my partner will insist on maintaining a controlling interest in the project as to retain creative control. As for the subject, I am tempted to give him a few (up to 10) gross points, but I am not sure that this will adversely effect our director/subject relationship. I don't want to get into an employer/employee situation... I know that I'm going to need actor/location releases, but what sort of contract should I draw up with the central subect. Also does anyone know a good source for these contracts, or should I get an entertainment lawer, and if so where are there inexpensive ones? Lawyers for the arts?

Thanks so much.

 

[captainkirkby]

I'm in the initial stages of starting a documentary feature about a musician. I've had a disastrous experience with a narrative feature where we had only an oral contract with the producer. I want to draw up an agreement with the subject of this project stating our respective roles/interest in the project. The film, as planned, will be kept ultra low budget so as to minimize backer/investor interference. I and my partner will insist on maintaining a controlling interest in the project as to retain creative control. As for the subject, I am tempted to give him a few (up to 10) gross points, but I am not sure that this will adversely effect our director/subject relationship. I don't want to get into an employer/employee situation... I know that I'm going to need actor/location releases, but what sort of contract should I draw up with the central subect. Also does anyone know a good source for these contracts, or should I get an entertainment lawer, and if so where are there inexpensive ones? Lawyers for the arts?

Thanks so much.

There is a book out called 'The Movie Business' The definitive guide to the legal and financial secrets of getting your movie made. by Kelly Charles Crabb can be very helpful. Also for lighter reading there is a magazine 'MovieMaker' The Art and Business of Making Movies. issue 66 volume 13 page 19 'A Law Firm By,For and About Movie makers. there a mention of a web site called www.mindfusionlaw.com