SAG Short Film Agreement – A Comprehensive Guide for Filmmakers
The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is a labor union representing film and television performers worldwide. One of the services that the SAG offers is the SAG Short Film Agreement, which is a contract between filmmakers and performers for low-budget productions. This agreement provides guidelines for wages, working conditions, and use of the performances. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the SAG Short Film Agreement.
Purpose of the SAG Short Film Agreement
The SAG Short Film Agreement is designed to create a fair and equitable relationship between filmmakers and performers. It allows filmmakers to hire professional actors for low-budget productions while ensuring that performers are compensated fairly and work under safe working conditions. The agreement also sets standards for the use of the productions, protecting the performers’ rights to their performances.
Eligibility for the SAG Short Film Agreement
A film is eligible for the SAG Short Film Agreement if it meets the following criteria:
– The film has a budget of $50,000 or less
– The film has a run time of 40 minutes or less
– The film is not intended for commercial distribution
It is important to note that eligibility for the SAG Short Film Agreement does not guarantee approval. Filmmakers must apply and receive authorization from SAG before hiring performers under this agreement.
Wages and Working Conditions
The SAG Short Film Agreement provides guidelines for minimum wages and working conditions for performers. The minimum wage for performers under this agreement is $125 per day. Performers must also receive a meal break every six hours and have access to restrooms and dressing rooms. The agreement also stipulates that the filmmaker must provide adequate insurance coverage for performers.
Use of Performances
The SAG Short Film Agreement provides guidelines for the use of performances by the filmmaker. The agreement requires that the performances may only be used in the final cut of the film. Performers retain the right to approve the use of their performances in promotional materials, and the filmmaker must provide a copy of the final cut of the film to SAG.
Submitting a SAG Short Film Agreement
Filmmakers who wish to employ performers under the SAG Short Film Agreement must submit an application to SAG for approval. The application must include a copy of the script, a budget breakdown, and proof of insurance coverage. SAG will review the application and provide approval or denial. Filmmakers must obtain approval before hiring performers under this agreement.
Conclusion
The SAG Short Film Agreement is a valuable tool for filmmakers who wish to hire professional performers for low-budget productions. This agreement provides guidelines for wages, working conditions, and use of performances, ensuring that performers are compensated fairly and work under safe working conditions. If you are a filmmaker planning a low-budget production, make sure to explore the SAG Short Film Agreement and follow the guidelines for eligibility and approval.
