NoDak Films is taking a different approach to producing its movie, ‘Last Summer For Boys’, set to film this summer (2010). Nathan Anderson, the films main producer, was kind enough to explain the organization’s $100 contribution model.
‘(It) applies to individuals, businesses and towns in, from or relocating to North Dakota. Our contracts have been reviewed, approved and offered encouragement by the North Dakota Securities Commission.’
Contributors so far have included a couple of former North Dakota governors, average everyday farmers, young professionals, mayors of North Dakota towns and the President of the Farmers Union. The fever seems to be catching.
What does a contribution get you?
As an Individual:*
- Receive a role as an extra actor/actress in a NoDak film perhaps along with a family member, friend or co-worker.
- Listed in the ‘film’ credits as an Associate Producer.
As a Business (Business, Product, Service):*
- Lifetime of advertising as a result of appearing in a NoDak film.
- Potential for increase in revenue as a result of appearing in a NoDak film.
- Owner listed in the ‘film’ credits as an Associate Producer.
- Name and website will appear in the ending credits.
- Name and website will appear on the NoDak Films website under a photograph still as it appeared in the film.
As a Town / City:*
- Increased town pride as a result of appearing in a NoDak film.
- Potential for increase in tourism as a result of appearing in a NoDak film.
- Lifetime of advertising as a result of appearing in a NoDak film.
- Town name and website will appear in the ending credits.
All contributors are essentially part of the first 'Sustainable Filmmaking Company' in the country. Anderson says each person who contributes on this model will be invited to attend a private screening of film upon completion. And there is a money back guarantee if production on the film should cease for any reason.
Anderson’s film has been in the works for a while now and he initially had a different idea for funding in mind. ‘… a movie called 'Wooly Boys' was being released. The movie was funded by the Bank of North Dakota. I thought 'great' North Dakota is finally embracing a movie industry. However, the movie was not a success and the Bank of North Dakota lost nearly 1/2 of the loan. At this very time I was in correspondence with the Bank of North Dakota and I received an email that said the Bank of North Dakota was no longer in the movie financing business. That email was the birth of NoDak Films and our $100 contribution model.’
While traditionally, movies have one or two main investors (producers) who contribute thousands of dollars to a film, they reap the profits and have a vast amount of control; Anderson saw many flaws to that system. He also wanted artistic navigation over his movie to ensure North Dakota was represented correctly. ‘I've never known tens of thousands of dollars. I've never had that kind of money at my disposal so it was difficult justifying asking individuals for money that I've never understood. Now, I understand $100. I've contributed $100 to NoDak Films over 50-fold these last 4 years. $100 opens up the opportunity to a wider audience while simultaneously widening the marketability of our movies.’
(A 6 minute instructional video on how NoDak Film's contribution model works)
To get involved in NoDak Films you can visit their web site or become a fan on their Facebook page. Consider investing in their $100 contribution model and become an extra today!
*More information about these contribution levels on NoDak Film's web site.
Part three of the NoDak Films series will delve into Anderson's methods of social media and how he's using it to market his idea. You can read Part one and Part three here.
For more great reading on local movie making, check out the Minneapolis Filmmaking Industry Examiner!
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Comments
Looks like Nathan has a strong connection with North Dakota. I hope this first movie succeeds so he can continue to build upon his model and make his state proud!
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