Cast your home in a starring role by adding it to a list of possible film locations.
Your own dreams of fame and fortune may have long since faded to black but there’s no reason why your home can’t become a star of the silver screen – and a handy source of extra income to boot.
Agencies is the first port of call for film-makers looking for buildings to ‘play’ anything from haunted mansions to lovers’ nests or 19th century farm workers’ cottages.
Simply add your property to an agency’s online database, then keep your fingers crossed that your bricks and mortar get cast in a starring role.
Ultra-modern homes are always in demand, especially those that are individually designed, as well as homes in particularly strange or striking locations – the more isolated the better.
There is also a ready market for gracious country mansions but, even the most humble house can be just what film-makers are after – depending on its authenticity and suitability to the plot of the particular film or TV show that is being made.
Just bear in mind some practical considerations.
So that you don’t shake hands on a deal to host a genteel period drama and end up with World War III being waged across your rose garden, here are some guidelines to help you ask the right questions and agree an appropriate fee before you sign on the dotted line.
1. What is the nature of the production? What will the noise levels be like? Will the filming involve special effects such as explosions, strobe lighting, smoke, dust, artificial snow etc and how may these affect pets and/or householders with allergies or health issues? If in double, ask to see the relevant sections of the script.
2. What are the proposed filming dates and what are the crew’s working hours likely to be?
3. Which rooms will be used and will any areas be off-limits to the owners? If so, for how long?
4. Will the crew be changing your decor or bringing in their own props? If so, what are their arrangements for clearing up and reinstating your own things when filming is over?
5. If valuables are to be left on your property overnight, will the film company provide its own security?
6. Roughly how many people will be involved in the filming? A good location manager will keep you up to date with who is expected on set and when, so that you know who is coming and going.
7. Will any of your own furniture or possessions be used as props? If the set designers like the look of something that is particularly valuable to you, check their insurance arrangements.
8. Will the crew need access to your kitchen and bathroom, or will they bring their own mobile facilities?
9. If the owners’ electricity, gas or water is to be used, how will this be metered so that the cost can be reimbursed?
10. A formal written contract should be drawn up and signed by both parties.
Plan ahead and anticipate any possible glitches and it will put your mind at rest so that you can enjoy the filming process to the full.
Last-minute changes are bound to happen, but as long as you keep an open mind and nurture a good relationship with the location manager, the whole experience should be enormous fun – Make your home a star!
Mai Lis Sivertsen is the owner and managing director of xgStreet.com, where you can trade; buy, sell or swap new and used products and services across the world commission free. Visit http://www.xgStreet.com or contact Mai Lis for more information about becoming an affiliate of xgStreet at webmaster@xgStreet.com
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