Legal Question in Entertainment Law in Illinois

Re: contract between producer and screenwriter

Film production contracts can be complicated - it is not a do-it-yourself job. There are a lot of "what-ifs" that have to be taken into account and even the most carefully drafted contracts can lead to disputes over how the splits are computed. You should talk to an attorney and get assistance on this project.

David K. Staub, Chicago, Illinois, business and tax attorney

Re: contract between producer and screenwriter

I would assume you're specifying profit shares. David Staub is correct that these are complicated agreements. Issues such as copyright ownership, compensation, approvals, rewrites, delivery dates, director cuts, budget control, distribution decisions and contract authority are just some of the points that should be included so as to avoid problems down the road.

Re: contract between producer and screenwriter

Great advice from both attorneys. Don't go at this alone. Consult an attorney. It might be a good idea to set up a production company like an LLC. The corporate entity will enter into contracts with talent, crew, distribution companies, etc. DS