Evaluating Overseas Incentive Programs for Documentary Filmmakers

As a partner with Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith in New York City, Steven C. Beer advises clients in the entertainment industry. Steven C. Beer wrote an article that offers advice to documentary producers seeking production incentives from foreign countries.
Many nations’ film commissions offer financial considerations to filmmakers working among their citizens. In addition to showcasing a country’s natural beauty and cultural attractions, documentaries enhance local economies by hiring production crews and purchasing food, lumber, costumes, and other necessities.
Producers should scrutinize these incentive programs. Depending on the host nation, some countries offer tax credits. They generally rebate a portion of qualifying purchases, anywhere from 20 to 50 percent. Agreements generally require a minimum expenditure.
Producers must also hire a local crew, whose quality may vary considerably. The scarcity of skilled labor may present problems in countries just starting their incentive programs. In addition, filmmakers may have to ensure culturally appropriate content by using local actors, locations, and directors. Moreover, works critical of the national regime may have difficulty gaining access.
Host nations carefully audit local expenditures. This process can take months or even years, complicating the production’s cash flow.

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Explaining the Work of the City Parks Foundation

Since July 2021, Steven C. Beer has served as a partner in the New York offices of Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, LLP. Concentrating his practice on the film and music industries, he provides legal counsel and helps producers negotiate rights deals for film and television projects. Outside of work, Steven C. Beer is a trustee of the City Parks Foundation.

In 1989, the idea for City Parks Foundation was formed by Kramer vs. Kramer author Avery Corman. Concerned with the park’s state where he grew up, Corman started searching for ways to reinvigorate it so new generations could enjoy it as he had. This mission evolved into Avery working alongside other New York residents with similar concerns, forming a foundation dedicated to offering special programming that encourages people to visit New York’s many parks.

Today, City Parks Foundation operates over 400 park programs per year through its network of 26,000 volunteers. Its sports programs, performance events, and park improvement programs reach over 300,000 residents annually. The foundation also provides 12,000 children with access to soccer, fitness, tennis, and golf training and facilities.

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