The first and so far only book on Film Markets. A Film Market is the best place a filmmaker can go to get traditional, non-DIY Distribution. The first edition of this book was used as a text at more than ten film schools in the US, and the book has an endorsement from the host of the #1 Filmmaking podcast on iTunes, and advice from 8 distributors.

This is a complete guide to film finance around the world, from first web short film to mainstream international multi-million dollar co-production.

The first, most crucial step in making a film is finding the funds to do it. Let Louise Levison, who wrote the innovative business plan for "The Blair Witch Project," show you how. This unique guide teaches you not only how to create a business plan, but also how to avoid common business plan mistakes, so that you can attract and secure an investor. In jargon-free terms, the author leads you through every step. Each chapter concentrates on a different section of the business plan, including the industry, marketing, financing, and distribution. Large format films, new media and shorts are also discussed. The included companion web site features supplementary exercises and spreadsheets so that you get comfortable crunching the numbers--no math degree required! The sixth edition contains completely revised and updated industry data along with updated information on distribution including online and foreign markets. Plus, new interviews and case studies with filmmakers will show you real-world examples of equity investors and markets.

This dictionary is an aid to anyone involved in seeking to finance a feature film project, especially independents. It covers terms used in film production and distribution, marketing, accounting, insurance, securities, corporate structures and general financial arenas. All of the principal forms of feature film finance are covered, including studio/distributors, production companies, lending institutions, co-financing, pre-sales, grants, foreign and passive investor financing involving the sale of a security.

Author Cones breaks financing options down into six main areas: gifts and grants, investor financing, domestic government subsidies and tax incentive programs, lender financing, international finance options, and studio or industry financing. Beginning with the forms of financing most likely to be accessible to independent feature film producers, Cones proceeds to other forms that become increasingly available as the producer's career matures. He provides specific, concise information regarding the many possible strategies and lists the distinct pros and cons of each strategy. Cones also counters much of the bad advice being provided by pseudoprofessional film finance consultants and points out scams that may separate unwary film producers from their money. Although the book focuses on financing feature films, much of its information is relevant to the financing of other kinds of projects, such as short films, documentaries, videos, and multimedia and theatrical endeavors.--From publisher description.

This updated ninth edition of Louise Levison’s ultimate filmmaker’s guide provides easy-to-follow steps for writing an investor-winning business plan for independent films. This new edition includes information on current distribution models and the evolving digital streaming service landscape. Updated examples and references solidify this edition as the go-to source for creating a successful film business plan. Complete with comprehensive explanations on how to write each of the eight sections of a business plan; a complete sample plan for reference; and a companion website with additional information and financial tables, this book gives readers the tools needed to secure financing for a film. Essential reading for students and professionals alike, this book is ideal for anyone looking to further their understanding of film financing and how to create a successful business plan.

In this comprehensive guidebook, three experienced entertainment lawyers tell you everything you need to know to produce and market an independent film from the development process to deal making, financing, setting up the production, hiring directors and actors, securing location rights, acquiring music, calculating profits, digital moving making, distribution, and marketing your movie.