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You are here: Experts > Industry > Broadcasting > TV Industry > Las Vegas Reality show (again)
Expert: Marrissa O`Leary
Date: 9/2/2008
Subject: Las Vegas Reality show (again)
Question
QUESTION: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it unheard of if
we (the writers/creators of our potential reality show)get product placement
endorsement contracts for the show prior to a network wanting the show and in
turn wanting rights to product placements also ? In other words can we BOTH do
product placement endorsements and do this show.Thanks Marrissa. Micke"
ANSWER: Hi, Mickey.
Glad you liked the last answer.
This time, I can tell you that it is indeed possible, as long as your potential sponsors know that, if there is a conflict with the network buying the show, the network takes precedence.
I actually believe there is precedence for this in some of the deals that Reveille made for shows such as BLOW OUT.
Good luck! I can't wait to hear that your show is sold!
Best,
Marrissa
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hi Marrissa,I have another question for you.Someone I know has connections to a couple network execs,besides the TV show treatment I gave him he's also asking for a budget sheet?????? I have NO idea how much a 13 week shoot would cost,I couldn't even guess at that.Any suggestions on how to get one or how I can make one??? Thanks, Micke
ANSWER: Hi Micke.
Unfortunately, I really don't have much of an answer for you on this one. Again, I might suggest you go to the local university film students and see what they can do to help you. Or perhaps, the local cable access people have or know someone who can help.
I'm a little leery to make this next suggestion, for fear of appearing to have a conflict of interest. But, since you are so very involved and have progressed so far, I think it might help you.
A reality producer I know has written a book on many of the subjects you are addressing. You can see the book at:
http://www.tidalwavetv.com/ShowStarter/book.htm
I hope this is helpful, and continue to wish you the best of success.
Marrissa
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hi again Marrissa,listen things are really rolling here,I have 6 casinos wanting to do this show and we're filming the pilot in a couple of weeks that I'm personally funding.My question is since this is becoming a reality now what kind of contract should I have the people around me sign so I can't get ripped off ? I have confidentiality and non disclosure forms but they seem too strict,by that I mean these people are going to try to push the show to networks and/or production companies,how can they do that after they sign these forms.I just want to protect myself and show that I'm the creator/owner of this project and DO NOT want to get robbed in any way.So what other forms are out there that they can sign and still try to sell the show with me as the owner/creator ??? Thanks. Micke
Answer
Hi Micke.
Wow! Seems like things are going great. Remember --- I am not an attorney, and you may want to consult one.
You want to include certain things in a regular contract in order to protect yourself.
- Ask your attorney if creating a new entity to pitch and produce the project is a good idea.
- Make sure everyone you hire has clauses that state that their services constitute a "work made for hire" (that is an official term under copyright law, so use it verbatim), and that you are the sole owner of rights.
- Include a non-disclosure clause for employees. For the people who are selling, modify the clause to say that they cannot disclose anything except in the process of attempting to obtain an agreement for production and/or distribution.
Good luck!
Marrissa
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