Written by Charlie O'Farrell on Nov 29, 2011. Posted in Contributors

Beware dubious production offers from unknown sources

I recently received an offer to produce 36 episodes of 20 minutes each about the history and contemporary life of the UK. The content was to cover everything from geological features to the most trendy bars and night clubs of today. I was asked for a budget, which I duly put together.

The ‘client’ was someone calling themselves Zhao Zhongxiang and apparently working for Hefei Jingying Imp & Exp Co Ltd in Hefei, China. He sent me a contract which I can only describe as basic. He failed to ask the right questions and only persisted in asking me to meet him in Hefei on mainland China. After trading ten emails I asked for EUR5,000 to cover my time and travel expenses, saying that this sum would be included in the budget.

I advise everyone to be very sceptical about any film production offers which come from a completely unknown source and appear to lack any production knowledge.

I received a negative reply to my request, whereupon I suggested that a Chinese producer friend of mine would attend a meeting in Hefei with no charge. Alternatively the ‘client’ could travel to London and meet with some directors and discuss the project.

The first option was rejected due to the confidential nature of the project and the second one was possible as long as I transferred EUR1,500 to cover the air ticket. When I sent my last email questioning the validity of the project I received no reply. Fortunately I didn’t spend any money, nor get anyone else involved. So except for some of my time I didn’t lose out.

I advise everyone to be very sceptical about any film production offers which come from a completely unknown source and appear to lack any production knowledge. These offers tend to come through one of the many film directories, which are published world-wide.