Above-the-line contract

Definition

An above-the-line contract is a type of agreement that involves key creative personnel in a film or television production, such as directors, producers, writers, and lead actors. These contracts are crucial as they establish the terms of employment, compensation, and creative control for individuals who significantly influence the project's direction and vision. Understanding above-the-line contracts is essential for navigating the complex hierarchy and financing structures within film and television production.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Above-the-line contracts are usually negotiated before production begins and set the foundation for the entire project’s financial structure.
2. The individuals covered by above-the-line contracts often have considerable leverage in negotiations due to their influence on a project's success.
3. These contracts typically include provisions for creative input, which can affect script revisions, casting choices, and overall direction.
4. Above-the-line costs usually account for a significant portion of a production's budget, making them critical to financial planning.
5. Understanding these contracts is essential for line producers as they must manage both above-the-line and below-the-line budgets to ensure overall project viability.

Review Questions

• How do above-the-line contracts impact the overall budget of a production?
  • Above-the-line contracts significantly impact the overall budget of a production because they cover the key creative personnel whose salaries often account for a large portion of the project's financial resources. Since these costs are typically negotiated early in the process, they set the stage for how much money can be allocated to below-the-line expenses. The financial commitments made in these contracts can dictate the scale of production and affect hiring decisions throughout the crew.
• Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of negotiating an above-the-line contract for a lead actor in a film.
  • Negotiating an above-the-line contract for a lead actor comes with advantages such as securing higher compensation, greater creative control, and potential profit-sharing arrangements through back-end deals. However, there are disadvantages too; high-profile actors may face increased scrutiny and pressure to deliver box office success. Additionally, if an actor is part of a poorly received project despite their efforts, it can negatively impact their reputation in the industry.
• Evaluate how understanding above-the-line contracts can benefit a line producer in managing a film project effectively.
  • Understanding above-the-line contracts benefits a line producer by enabling them to effectively manage budget allocations and ensure all creative aspects align with the production’s vision. It helps them forecast costs associated with hiring key personnel while balancing those expenses against below-the-line budgets. By being well-versed in these agreements, line producers can anticipate negotiation challenges and foster collaboration among creatives to achieve a successful final product.

Related terms

below-the-line contract:

A type of agreement for crew members and technicians involved in the production, typically covering roles like camera operators, sound engineers, and editors.

back-end deal: An agreement where a creative individual receives a percentage of the profits from the film or project, often incentivizing performance.

union agreements: Contracts established by labor unions representing film and television workers, ensuring fair pay, working conditions, and benefits for members.