France

[FR] Financial Backing for the Film Industry

IRIS 1997-6:1/12

Laurence Giudicelli

Barrister, Paris Court of Appeal

Decree No 97-449 of 29 April 1997 states that decisions on advances are to be taken by the Director General of the National Cinematographic Centre (Centre national de la cinématographie - CNC), after consultation with the "Committee on Selective Financial Aid for Production" (Commission du soutien financier sélectif à la production), whose members are chosen for their artistic, technical and financial expertise. Advances for completed films are made, up to a set limit, on presentation of a distribution contract covering cinema showings. When advances are made for film projects, the Director General of the CNC may submit the completed film to the said Committee for approval. If its verdict is unfavourable, he may require immediate repayment of all or part of the advance. The various repayment options open to production companies are spelled out. The decree also indicates the kinds of film for which producers may seek financial aid.

Decree No 97-450 of 29 April 1997 details the procedure for the award of advances and grants to distribution companies to facilitate the distribution of high-quality French or foreign films which face special distribution problems.