Student Films
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High-Level Summary
This contract enables student filmmakers to work with professional and non-professional actors. While non-members are not covered by the terms of this agreement, they are able to use work under this agreement toward SAG-AFTRA employment verification.
Restrictions on student films include a maximum runtime of 35 minutes, a maximum budget of $35,000, a maximum of 20 shooting days, and a maximum overall shooting period of 6 weeks. Deviation from any of these characteristics may mean that the production is subject to a contract upgrade.
Payment Structure
All rates quoted are minimums and do not limit the performer’s right to negotiate for better rates, terms, or conditions of employment.
Principal performer rates deferred up to 12 hours/day. Performer consent is required prior to distribution, at which point $125/day must be paid to performers prior to the initial release.
Wardrobe, mileage, and penalties are not deferred.
Exclusivity is not allowable under this contract.
Residuals
Residuals are the amounts that are paid, each calendar quarter, to principal performers when the film is distributed. Residuals are generally based on a percentage of the Distributor’s Gross Receipts (DGR). The total percentage is then divided up amongst performers based on the time they worked on the film and their salary.
Media Percentage of DGR
Free Television 3.6%
Basic Cable 3.6%
Pay Cable 3.6%
Videocassettes/Discs 4.5% of 1st million, 5.4% thereafter
Free/Ad-Supported Streaming 3.6%
Paid Subscription/Internet Rental 3.6%
Download-to-Own/Electronic Sell Thru 5.4% of 20% of 1st 50K units,
9.75% of 20% thereafter
Pension & Health
In the event of distribution, the producer must make a Pension and Health Contribution equal to 19% of the total gross salary prior to distribution.
Clips
Clips must be made available to performers upon request, at cost.
Performer Holidays
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Presidents' Day
Good Friday
Memorial Day
July Fourth
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
The Friday after Thanksgiving
Christmas Day