Learn from the SVP of Development & Production at Vertical Entertainment

Get a Downloadable Backstop Offer Template

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PLEASE NOTE: Although this exclusive Stage 32 class is no longer live and the teacher is not available on email, we highly encourage you to do any assignments to get the most out of the educational experience.

With more streaming platforms than ever before picking up films, understanding the intricacies of distribution contracts has never been more critical. Traditional distribution agreements don't always apply to the world of streamers, and you need to be prepared for the shifting landscape. 

The biggest obstacle you face when distributing your film is the sheer volume of terms and conditions buried in these contracts. What about theatrical vs. non-theatrical rights, SVOD, aVOD, and TVOD agreements? And how do you handle backend splits, residuals, and ensuring the right distribution fees? This class will break down these complexities, so you’ll know what questions to ask before entering into any agreement.

Kristin Harris is the perfect guide to walk you through these nuances. With nearly two decades of experience working in development, production, acquisitions, and distribution, she has been involved in the release of critically acclaimed films such as SHORT TERM 12, MEADOWLAND, SUNSHINE CLEANING, and LOVING VINCENT. As the SVP of Production & Development at Vertical Entertainment, Kristin knows the ins and outs of distribution from both an indie and studio perspective, and she’s helped countless filmmakers secure the best possible deals for their projects.

This exclusive 2-Part on demand Stage 32 class will give you the tools to navigate not only standard theatrical and non-theatrical deals but also the unique terms that come with streaming licenses, helping you navigate your own distribution decisions. This is insight you won’t easily find elsewhere.

By the end of this class, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of distribution contracts, sales agents, and how to work with streamers. You’ll dive into key provisions like distribution fees, rights negotiations, marketing materials, and the payment terms for different types of content, from theatrical releases to international sales. You’ll walk away knowing how to structure deals, protect your interests, and secure the right partnerships to get your film in front of the right audience. 

Plus, you’ll also receive:

• A downloadable Backstop Offer Template

Praise for Kristin's Stage 32 Education:

"Kristin was amazing! So knowledgeable and articulate. I learned so much." -Maggie G.

"Kristin is knowledgeable and engages the audience. Super informative." -Shelly B.

SESSION 1: Introduction and Principal Completed Film Distribution Contract Provisions to Understand

• Distribution and Sales Agents: A Bird’s Eye View
• What is the difference between a sales agent and distributor?
• When should I be considering when I engage a sales rep?
• What information will I need on hand during my initial conversations?
• What are my ultimate goals for my picture’s release?
• Understanding my investors positions and general financial waterfalls

• The Material Terms and Provisions You Must Discuss Before Entering Into an Agreement With a Distributor
  • Theatrical
  • Non Theatrical
  • Pay 1, SVOD, Linear TV
  • Pay 2, aVOD
  • tVOD/EST
  • Physical Goods/DVD
  • WW/International
  • Domestic
  • The Caribbean Basin tango
  • How long is the term of the Agreement?
  • Can distributors enter into deals with subscription platforms that are longer than the term?
  • Payment Terms
  • Backend Splits
• Rights
• How can you make sure you’re not giving away too much
• A discussion of the typical rights including:
• Territories
• Term
• Minimum Guarantees/Advances
• Gross Corridors
• Bonuses
• Distribution Fees and International Market Fees
• Traditional Gross Receipts Waterfalls
• Distribution/Marketing Expenses
• Release Commitments and holdbacks
• Title Changes
• Marketing Materials and Paid Ads
• Residuals
• Misc points

• Q&A with Kristin

SESSION 2: STREAMING LICENSES, PREBUY, CO-PRODUCTION, and BACKSTOP AGREEMENTS

• Working with Streamers
  • Development as an original
  • Licensing Completed films
  • Terms
  • Fees

• Traditional All Rights Agreements for Early Stage Acquisitions:
  • Understanding the nuances of various deal types:
    • PreBuys
    • CoProductions/Productions
    • Financing deals
    • Backstop deals

• Finance Plans
• Budget
• Collateral
• Estimates
• Lenders
• Timing
• Insurance
• Approvals/Meaningful consult
• Payment Terms revisited

• Credits
• On Set Photography
• Access to Rough Cuts and Materials
• Delivery Schedule
• Distribution Agreements and NOA

• Q&A with Kristin

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• This is an in-depth, practical, and detailed class with significantly more content than a standard 90-minute webinar.
• This class will consist of two sessions, each roughly two hours in duration. 

PLEASE NOTE: Although this exclusive Stage 32 class is no longer live and the teacher is not available on email, we highly encourage you to do any assignments to get the most out of the educational experience.

All levels of filmmakers (advanced, intermediate and beginner)studying filmmaking, producing, or related disciplines who want to learn about the business of distribution.

All levels of showrunners (advanced, intermediate and beginner) studying filmmaking, producing, or related disciplines who want to learn about the business of distribution.

All levels of writers (advanced, intermediate and beginner) studying filmmaking, producing, or related disciplines who want to learn about the business of distribution.

Producers studying filmmaking, producing, or related disciplines who want to learn about the business of distribution.

Actors studying filmmaking, producing, or related disciplines who want to learn about the business of distribution.

Praise for Kristin's Stage 32 Education:

"Kristin was amazing! So knowledgeable and articulate. I learned so much." -Maggie G.

"Kristin is knowledgeable and engages the audience. Super informative." -Shelly B.