Ep 252: A Legal Architect’s Journey Through Hollywood, Integrity, and Innovation

Episode Summary:Marc's career is anything but ordinary. Before becoming a powerhouse entertainment attorney at Fox Rothschild LLP, he studied film at the University of Pennsylvania and UCL, made three documentaries—including the Sundance Special Jury Award-winning After Innocence—and helped change legislation in multiple states. In this in-depth conversation, Marc opens up about how he navigated the worlds of law and filmmaking, and the lessons he’s learned from representing clients ranging from Hollywood legends like Joe Pesci to first-time filmmakers breaking out at Venice.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🎥 Breaking In – How a passion project about the wrongfully convicted became a Sundance hit and changed state laws.⚖ Balancing Careers – Producing films while practicing law at major firms.✍ Why Contracts Matter – The dangers of handshake deals and how to protect your creative work early.🎯 Negotiation Tactics – Why respect, clear communication, and calm articulation win deals in a small industry.🖥 Streaming’s Impact – How Netflix’s early spending spree changed the game, and why Apple’s theatrical push is both exciting and limited.🌍 Global Deals – How to approach cross-border financing, tax credits, and presales in today’s market.💡 Advice for Creatives – What young lawyers, filmmakers, and financiers must understand before jumping in.🔍 Case Studies – Behind-the-scenes legal challenges on The Irishman, The Hunting Ground, The Eagle Huntress, Winter’s Bone, and The Kids Are All Right.Guest Bio:Marc is an entertainment attorney in the 40-member Entertainment & Sports Law Department at Fox Rothschild LLP. A filmmaker, his unique career has spanned Sundance premieres, award-winning documentaries, high-profile distribution deals, and complex cross-border financing arrangements. His clients include top-tier talent, rising stars, and independent financiers shaping the future of content.Key Links & Resources Mentioned:Fox Rothschild LLP – Entertainment LawAfter Innocence (Sundance Special Jury Award)Unraveled, The Irishman, Winter’s Bone, The Kids Are All RightThe Hunting Ground, The Eagle Huntress, Dead Man’s Wire (Venice 2024)Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNatural

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Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling.Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film.Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network