Beyond the Handshake: Why Basic Contracts Are Essential for Even Small Entertainment Projects

📚 Production Solutions: Protect Your Rights and Avoid Costly Mistakes with 7 Contract Basics.

As we all now know from the labor strikes in 2023, the entertainment industry is heavily unionized. The agreements that have been jointly negotiated by the unions and employers (known as “CBAs”—collectively bargained agreements) can be daunting. That’s why business affairs experts, line producers and company managers are invaluable to the teams on large projects. 

But on smaller projects, creators are often left to their own devices. They don’t always have the funds to hire experts, so they sometimes abandon the idea of putting something in writing and hope for the best. But relying on a handshake can leave you creatively and financially vulnerable.

On the flip side, when a producer gives you a deal memo or contract to sign, you should be able to understand it, especially if it is a non-union gig or if you do not have representation. 

Today is the day to empower yourself with the seven essential ingredients of any entertainment industry contract. Whether you are writing one or receiving one, understanding these basic principles will help safeguard your interests and set your creative journey on a path toward success.

Seven Basic Ingredients of Entertainment Industry Contracts