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

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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 Law
• After Innocence (Sundance Special Jury Award)
• Unraveled, The Irishman, Winter’s Bone, The Kids Are All Right
• The Hunting Ground, The Eagle Huntress, Dead Man’s Wire (Venice 2024)

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