Monday, June 13, 2022

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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