Dave shares his journey from sports agent to entertainment lawyer, emphasizing initiative and authenticity in the industry. He discusses funding independent films, stressing the importance of a compelling narrative and legal protection through a production company. The conversation covers the financial intricacies of filmmaking, including the preference for investments over loans. Dave also touches on acquisition deals and the growing role of AI in entertainment while highlighting the significance of ethical boundaries and transparency.

ABOUT DAVE

Dave Stern is an entertainment lawyer who provides creative and practical solutions for complex matters in the areas of Sports, Entertainment and Corporate/Commercial Law. In particular, Dave’s practice focuses on audiovisual production, distribution and exploitation (films, television series, digital media projects), brand licensing, influencer representation and commercial transactions. Dave also represents labels, bands, producers and artists in the negotiation of recording, management and publishing agreements. In addition, Dave is involved in establishing optimal corporate structuring for his clients.

Dave has a unique sports background, as he previously worked in the legal departments of both the Oakland Raiders and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd., where he was regularly involved in software licencing, the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, sponsorships, contests and promotions, collective bargaining, athlete/player contracts, broadcasting and distribution. He has counselled 36 film & TV projects, including Blackberry, Seven Veils, Humane, and many more.

CHAPTERS

0:41 Introduction
4:49 Journey to Entertainment Law & Landing His Dream Job with the Oakland Raiders
9:25 Transition from Sports to Film & TV
17:48 Foundations of Getting a Movie Made
22:32 Why Incorporating a Company is Essential
28:02 Financing Your Film
33:21 Navigating Private Film Financing What's the ROI?
36:57 Pitching Your Project & Incentivizing Investors
38:05 Getting Talent Attached
40:36 Crew & Locations
42:54 Maximizing Distribution: Strategies for Getting your Film Seen
46:41 Impact of Streaming Platforms
48:01 Understanding Residuals (and Why They Were a Part of the Actor & Writer Strikes)
55:42 AI & The Future of Film
1:08:06 Conclusion & Keeping up with Dave Stern