Working without a Contract

Q: Angela,
Are you finding any duds in Los Angeles as far as directors, or film people go? Jaqueline and I have been working on a film for the past year and a half and suddenly they throw a contract at us without warning. It was a no-pay job, so we didn't feel a contract was necessary, and when shown to Jaqueline's agent we were told definitely do not sign it.
Now we are both being slandered because we had to quit. (Part of the deal was "sign this or don't come to set.") I was doing wardrobe and now they removed me off IMDB for the film even though I did it ALL to date. ???
So I just need to know is it better out that way, or...is it really like this everywhere?

Michelle

AO:
Hi Michelle,
There is a lot of that (what you just mentioned) out here too. There are scams, unprofessional people and all of that here as well.

My personal experience is that when a deal goes south...bundle up all of the emotional energy, and other resources you've invested into the project, combine it with love and your passion for the business and send it out to the Universe. Remember what you plant, grows seeds and becomes our harvest, so you don't want to spend any negative energy or waste any more time trying to correct the "deal gone bad".
Simply just move on.

I've had a couple of these deals - and I'll note in my database not to ever do business with these folks again. It is sad, but really simple.
The next suggestion is not to ever begin a project (even a free one) without a contract. It's just a good idea.
The most intimate person in our lives (our spouses) we sign contracts with when we marry - yet we are afraid to ask for a contract on a business deal.
And this is a business, so don't be shy about asking for a "letter of agreement" so you never get abused like this again.

And please keep me posted. I want to hear what happens.

Angela

© Angela Oberer