MEDIC!!!

If anyone is in immediate danger, please call 911.

SAFETY FIRST

Safety and security is the producers job. If they fail to do their job, you shouldn’t have to pay the price. If you or someone you know is facing abuse from content creation, report it here on our MEDIC!!! database.

Know the difference.

Non-union, Student films, passion projects, guerrilla film making, stealing shots, shoe string budget or no budget at all. Agreeing to commit or volunteer for a project is fine as long as you understand what you’re signing up for. Some may ask for your help in exchange for a screen credit, deferred payment, meals and/or gas reimbursements. This is typical but be mindful. You may be asked to do a lot but there’s nothing wrong with this scenario. Especially when building experience. Working hard and investing in a project is not abuse.

However, productions that have money and refuse to pay and ask you to do questionable things, is a problem. They string you along with the sole intention of taking advantage of you. This is not acceptable.

California has pushed out businesses like never before and the film industry is rapidly growing across the states. It’s creating opportunities for many who want to make a career in the film biz, unfortunately, bad actors see opportunity as well. That is, to take advantage of those who haven’t been exposed to, and are unaware of, the manipulative practices in the industry. If it sounds off, sketchy or to good to be true, it probably is.

It all starts when you’re asked to do something you’re uncomfortable with, testing to see where you draw the line. Then comes the false sense of security by promising to get you more work, stick with them and they’ll “help” build your career. Many folks have been mistreated and harassed through quid pro quo. Giving in only enables these people to continue and abuse others.

If you see the red flags, you can avoid the problems. I get it, we want to break into this industry. It’s as arduous as it is glamourous. But, there’s also a difference between right and wrong. Don’t get trapped and pay attention.

SUBMIT A REPORT

All submissions are confidential. We protect your privacy and we would only reach out for assistance should a criminal investigation be opened.

Black Flags

• substantial number of complaints of malpractice, misconduct or delinquency. Has been reported to labor board for violations.

Red Flags

• Two or more complaints of malpractice, misconduct or delinquency.

Yellow Flags

• One complaint of malpractice, misconduct or delinquency.