You’ve made your movie. You’ve even applied to some great film festivals, and maybe they’ve been encouraging. Now people are calling you, asking to see it, and offering to license it on your behalf. How do you determine whom to collaborate with? What questions need to be asked BEFORE you make a deal?
The best thing you can ever do is talk to other filmmakers who have worked with the rep — and not just the ones that the rep recommends. Make those calls. The second best thing you can do is to have a face to face meeting with the proposed rep. The personal approach matters. Look them in the eye. Connect. Have a beer or a cup of coffee. Ask yourself if you’d like to have dinner with them a year for now.
Now start to ask some questions, ask for some help, and gain a better understanding of both the process and the individual or company you are considering.
