Customer Reviews

43 Ways to Finance Your Feature Film: A Comprehensive Analysis of Film Finance

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

How helpful this book is depends on how "green" you are about the film industry. Those with little to no knowledge about film production will find the book resourceful, informative and very "to-the-point" about the different types of financing available. The advantage/disadvantage sections are especially concise--it's always good to see both sides when it comes to deals potentially worth millions. The "further reading" sections at the end of chapter are also handy, if you want to do extra research on your own.

For those who are experienced film producers (or even those who have finished rigorous film producing and/or entertainment business academic programs, such as myself), the information may repeat many things you already know. Many of the strategies in this book I've learned about in producing classes and film financing seminars--and I'm just starting my career. So I'm sure that some seasoned producers may think this book is reinventing the wheel. However, I did think that the sections dealing with the different securities and corporation options were very informative as far as how they impact your tax status, the difference between active and passive investors, how your autonomy as a filmmaker/producer may be affected, etc. It breaks down a lot of tax legalese into layman's terms.

Overall, I recommend the book--as a primer for new producers and students, and as a great reference guide to those with experience.

I've gone through this book from cover to cover and find it invaluable. Mr. Cones is very thorough in has coverage and assessment of the different ways to finance a film. He explains securities, as well as non-securities financing on a level that is appealing to both the beginner, as well as established film makers. In addition, he explains the popular business structures and how they can benefit your film. Most important, Mr. Cones writes with ethical candor. He tells you about some of the schemes that go on in Hollywood and gives you advice on what to avoid. Do yourself a favor, go out and buy this book!

This is basically just a list of ways to finance a film. Each method is listed with advantages and disadvantages, most of which you could easily discern for yourself. If you are looking for something that reveals some insider secret to financing your film, this is not it. Does give some informative terminology, but nothing you couldn't find in any number of other books. If you are new to the business, I recommend something a little more in depth, even producer production notes will be more helpful. If you're a pro, this will give you no new insight.

Mr. Cones has put together an excellent resource for indie filmmakers. My lawyer recommended his work to me, as he's already laid out the difficulties and intricacies of financing a film, and it's a lot cheaper (per hour) to read the book than to have my lawyer explain it to me. At times, it's daunting...but that's the nature of the material. Plus, you can skip to the relevant section of funding that works for your particular project.

The book does has some useful tidbits here and there, but all in all it's asking price (when I bought it for $35) was grossly excessive, particularly its legal section. If its not on discount (<$10) don't bother.

Concise, to the point and very interesting. I knew quite a bit of it, but the author pulls no punches and gives great suggestions and warnings.

Worth the price of admission.