Phil's expertise

 Media & Entertainment

I work closely with other specialists across Lewis Silkin including the emerging areas of digital delivery of audio visual products and cross over into other related applications.  I also have support from our corporate team and specialists in media, brands and technology and I am regularly asked to speak publicly and comment on matters relating to the film industry.

 Film

I act for clients across the principal areas of film production, finance and distribution but I also represent talent agencies, technical servicing and even theatrical exhibitors.  My practice has grown on the basis of combining my legal expertise with an in-depth knowledge of the practical aspects such as revenue streams arising from the sales representation and distribution of feature films which I gained from my time managing an international sales agent and UK distributor.  I am therefore ideally placed to understand on the one hand the financial and creative needs of film producers and on the other hand the commercial imperatives for those parties who finance feature film production and exploit rights in the films.  It is my experience that this assists understanding of all parties’ needs which leads to fast, efficient and effective negotiations which hastens the film’s progress to production.

During my career, I have had the great privilege to act for major US studios and leading UK independent production companies as well as leading financiers, sales companies and distributors on complex multi party transaction across project development, financing and exploitation.  My particular strengths include a pragmatic approach to recognising my clients’ key needs and implementing them in these complex transactions with a proven record in securing my clients' needs and building strong relationships.