What is a Minimum Guarantee (MG) loan? By David Brown
Unlock Cash Before Delivery: How FilmMoney’s MG Advance Loan Turns Paper into Power
In today’s film economy, landing a Minimum Guarantee (MG) from a reputable distributor is a major milestone. Whether it’s Netflix, Universal, or A24, an MG validates your project — and more importantly, it promises future cash. But that’s the problem: future.
Until delivery, that MG sits as an IOU. You still need to finish the movie, hit deadlines, and keep the crew paid. That’s where FilmMoney and FM Lending LLC come in, with our Minimum Guarantee Advance Loan — turning tomorrow’s payment into today’s production fuel.
What is a Minimum Guarantee (MG)?
A Minimum Guarantee is a distributor’s legally binding commitment to pay you a fixed amount once the film is delivered. It typically comes after you’ve attached key cast, locked your script, and generated enough buzz to secure a distribution deal.
However, the MG doesn’t hit your account until delivery — and delivery can take months, or even a year. That delay leaves many producers in a cash crunch. You’ve secured your buyer… but can’t afford to finish the movie.
FilmMoney’s MG Advance Loan — Get Paid Now
With the MG Advance Loan, FM Lending LLC advances up to 70%–80% of your MG value before delivery. It’s fast, structured, and production-friendly — designed by David Brown, a PGA and DGA producer who’s faced this exact challenge on the front lines.
Key Benefits:
Advance up to 80% of your signed MG amount
Loan Term: 8–12 months
Premium: 15%–20% flat
Origination Fee: 3.5%–10% of loan
How It Works
You Secure the MG – From a recognized distributor or sales agent.
We Underwrite the Deal – Review the MG contract, budget, and borrower.
Incremental Weekly Funding – After verifying qualified expenses through weekly audits, we fund you in stages.
Repayment – Once the film is delivered and the MG is paid, the loan is repaid from your distributor’s payment.
Why David Brown Designed This Product
After producing multiple films and navigating deals with major buyers, David Brown saw firsthand how MGs could bottleneck production. He built this solution to bridge that gap — because financing delays kill momentum.
“When a studio sends you an MG, it’s a greenlight. The last thing you should worry about is running out of cash before the finish line.” — David Brown, Founder of FilmMoney and FM Lending LLC
Use Your MG to Fund Post, Lock Talent, or Secure Your Bond
Whether you’re hiring a post house, chasing a high-demand editor, or getting your completion bond in place — this loan unlocks your leverage. You’re not guessing or gambling. You’re advancing a contractually secured payout.
Bonus: Loan Fees May Qualify for Rebate
In qualifying states, the fees and premiums paid on your MG Advance Loan may count as qualified production expenses — meaning you could recoup 20%–40% of the loan cost through your state’s tax incentive program .
Ready to Move from Greenlight to Go-Time?
FilmMoney and FM Lending LLC are here to help you finish strong — not just start strong. When you’ve secured your buyer, we’ll help you unlock your MG to finish the film and get paid.
Visit www.filmmoney.com or email us at hello@filmmoney.com to speak with David Brown directly and get prequalified.