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Hello Filmmakers!
Welcome to the first issue of the Johnsonese Brokerage's Film Production Insurance Newsletter. The goal of our newsletter is to provide useful information about insurance to the film and video production industry.
I will also inform you about the film-related activities of our company. For example, I recently participated in a panel discussion at the the inaugural Chicago International Hip-Hop Film Festival. Thanks to Mark Armstrong for the invitation. Areas of discussion included the risks involved with relatively simple-looking music video productions.
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| Accidents Happen on High Budget Productions Too |
Michael Jackson's death reminds us of the infamous Pepsi  commercial accident. On January 27, 1984, Jackson was filming a Pepsi commercial involving a simulated concert. Pyrotechnics accidentally set Jackson's hair on fire. He suffered second-degree burns to his scalp. Jackson was widely reported to suffer from a lifetime of chronic pain and insomnia after the accident. Accidents happen on even the highest budget productions. Pepsi reportedly settled for $1.5 million in damages to Jackson.
Pictured is the Pepsi Cola logo circa 1984
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| $500,000 Jewelry Theft |
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On June 6, 2009 $500,000 of Dior jewelry 'went missing' from a Lindsay Lohan shoot in New York City. Police questioned Lohan as well as others involved in the shoot. Initially false rumors spread that Lohan was being accused of the theft by police.
Whoever was responsible for this shoot is not only on the hook for half a million in lost jewels, but is also probably taking a lot of heat from the star's people for the embarrassing publicity.
Valuable costumes and props required advanced security planning.
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| Blank Involved in Actor's Death |
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A client recently asked me why a gun fight scene to be shot using only blanks was considered a stunt by the insurance company. I was reminded of actor Brandon Lee's death.
 On March 31, 1993, while making the action film "The Crow", a blank was supposed to be fired from a real gun at close range towards Brandon Lee. A series of errors led to a gun being used that had a real bullet already lodged in the chamber. The firing of the blank cartridge was powerful enough to push the real bullet out of the chamber, killing Lee.
All stunts need to be reported to your insurance company in advance. When in doubt if a scene qualifies as a stunt for insurance purposes, be sure to ask your agent.
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The Johnsonese Brokerage can assist you with most of your film and video insurance needs. To get started immediately call 773.252.8750 or Email info@johnsonese.com.
Thanks,
Christopher Johnson
Johnsonese Brokerage LLC
insurance for the creative community
2149 W Armitage Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
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