I had been shopping around a script for a while when a producer took interest. After reading the latest draft, I was invited to a meeting at his Pittsburgh office. He told me that he loved the project for me, a first time director, because it was a genuinely emotional yet commercial story that could be filmed fairly cheaply.
He told me, that while he loved the project he wasn't going to go out on a limb if I wasn't and that the proposal package to investors would cost roughly $3500, but his company would take care of some of the cost, leaving my company to pay $2500 before they begin the package. The money would then be later recouped in the line budget under Developement, where I would get my money back.
I'm not sure if it ought to work this way, and as this is my first attempt at working with a producer to find funding, im a bit apprehensive.
Does it work this way? If not - how would you, as a producer, handle this phase in development?
Thank you.
Best,
Shawn McLeod
I'd drop him and find someone else. It shouldn't cost that much to put a package together. I'd at least ask for a breakdown of costs.
But I'd put my money on crooked.
DaveD is right...drop him! If it smells bad it is bad. What has he produced? If he is interested he should be willing to go out on a limb. That is what producers do...they get the money. Sounds like complete BS to me. Run!
Its good advice to run, sounds like you would be kissing your money good bye forever.
Cleary
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