What do you do if you suspect a film production is at risk due to financial mismanagement?

1 Identify the source

The first step is to identify the source of the financial problem. Is it coming from the producer, the director, the accountant, the distributor, the financier, or someone else? Who is responsible for managing the budget, approving the expenses, and reporting the income? You may need to do some research, ask some questions, or review some documents to find out who is in charge of the money and how they are handling it. You may also want to check the contracts, agreements, or deals that outline the financial obligations and rights of each party involved in the project.

2 Gather evidence

The next step is to gather evidence of the financial mismanagement. You may have some clues, such as missing receipts, inflated invoices, unexplained charges, discrepancies in reports, or signs of cash flow problems. However, you need to have solid proof to support your suspicions and to take any action. You may need to collect copies of documents, records, statements, or correspondence that show the financial transactions, errors, or irregularities. You may also need to consult with other people who have access to or knowledge of the financial information, such as your co-workers, collaborators, or advisors.

3 Report the issue

The third step is to report the issue to the appropriate authority. Depending on the nature and severity of the problem, you may need to contact different people or organizations. For example, you may need to inform your supervisor, your union, your lawyer, your agent, your insurance company, or the police. You may also need to follow some protocols, such as filing a complaint, making a claim, or initiating a lawsuit. You should be prepared to present your evidence, explain your concerns, and request a resolution.

4 Protect yourself

The fourth step is to protect yourself from any negative consequences of the financial mismanagement. You may face some risks, such as losing your pay, your credit, your reputation, or your legal rights. You may also face some challenges, such as dealing with stress, conflict, or uncertainty. You should take some measures to safeguard your interests and well-being. For example, you should keep copies of your contracts, invoices, payments, and communications. You should also seek professional advice, support, or representation if needed.

5 Monitor the situation

The fifth step is to monitor the situation and follow up on the progress. You may need to wait for some time before the issue is resolved or the outcome is determined. You may also need to cooperate with the investigation, the mediation, or the litigation process. You should keep track of the developments, updates, or decisions that affect the project or your position. You should also communicate with the relevant parties, such as your employer, your co-workers, your clients, or your partners.

6 Learn from the experience

The sixth step is to learn from the experience and prevent future problems. You may have gained some insights, skills, or lessons from dealing with the financial mismanagement. You may also have identified some gaps, weaknesses, or opportunities for improvement in the financial management of film production. You should apply what you have learned to your current or future projects. You should also share your knowledge, feedback, or recommendations with others who may benefit from it.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?