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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
/X/ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For The Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2000
/_/ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number 0-25308
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(f/k/a Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 13-3751702
(State or other (I.R.S. Employer
jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
8800 SUNSET BLVD., THIRD FLOOR, LOS ANGELES, CA 90069
(Address of principal executive offices) (zip code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (310) 855-1199
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $.001 per share
(title of class)
Warrants to Purchase Common Stock
(title of class)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes /X/ No / /
Indicate by check mark if disclosures of delinquent filers pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained,
to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. / /
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates
of the Registrant as of April 12, 2001, (based on the closing sale price on such
date as reported on the OTC Bulletin Board) was $0.51.
The number of shares of common stock outstanding as of April 12, 2001
was 9,803,906.
PART I
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains "forward-looking statements",
including those within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995. These statements may consist of any statement other than a
recitation of historical fact and can be identified by the use of
forward-looking terminology such as "may," "expect" "anticipate," "estimate,"
"intend" or "continue" or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or
comparable terminology. Please note that all forward-looking statements are
necessarily speculative and there are risks and uncertainties that could cause
actual events or results to differ materially from those referred to in such
forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other
things, the highly speculative and inherently risky and competitive nature of
the motion picture industry. There can be no assurance of the economic success
of any motion picture since the revenues derived from the production and
distribution of a motion picture (which do not necessarily bear a direct
correlation to the production or distribution costs incurred) depend primarily
upon its acceptance by the public, which cannot be predicted. The commercial
success of a motion picture also depends upon the quality and acceptance of
other competing films released into the marketplace at or near the same time,
the availability of alternative forms of entertainment and leisure time
activities, general economic conditions and other tangible and intangible
factors, all of which can change and cannot be predicted with certainty.
Therefore, there is a substantial risk that some or all of the motion pictures
released, distributed, financed or produced by the registrant will not be
commercially successful, resulting in costs not being recouped or anticipated
profits not being realized. The registrant's results of operations for the year
ended December 31, 2000 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may
be expected in future periods. Due to quarterly fluctuations in the number of
motion pictures in which the registrant controls the distribution rights and
which become available for distribution (and thus, for which revenue can first
be recognized) and the number of motion pictures distributed by the registrant,
as well as the unpredictable nature of audience and subdistributor response to
motion pictures distributed by the registrant, the registrant's revenues,
expenses and earnings fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter and from
year to year. In addition, for several reasons, including (i) the likelihood of
continued industry-wide increases in acquisition, production and marketing costs
and (ii) the registrant's intent, based upon its ongoing strategy, to acquire
rights to or produce films which have greater production values (often as a
result of larger budgets), the registrant's costs and expenses, and thus the
capital required by the registrant in its operations and the associated risks,
may increase in the future. Additional risks and uncertainties are discussed
elsewhere in appropriate sections of this report and in other filings made by
the registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The risks
highlighted above and elsewhere in this report should not be assumed to be the
only things that could affect future performance of the registrant. The
registrant does not have a policy of updating or revising forward-looking
statements and thus it should not be assumed that silence by management of the
registrant over time means that actual events are bearing out as estimated in
such forward-looking statements.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
General
First Look Media, Inc. ("Company") specializes in the acquisition and
direct distribution of, and worldwide license and sale of distribution rights
to, independently produced feature films in a wide variety of genres, including
action, art-house, comedy, drama, foreign language, science fiction and
thrillers. The Company has accumulated a library of distribution rights,
including sales agency rights, in various media and markets to approximately 250
films. Additionally, the Company has established a television commercial
production division and expects to begin producing television commercials for
domestic and international markets in the second half of 2001.
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With respect to its film related activities, the Company operates in
numerous capacities, including as:
o a distributor. The Company acquires the distribution rights to films
for specified terms, territories and media from independent producers.
In this capacity, the Company receives distribution fees. In exchange
for these distribution rights, the Company may commit to pay the
independent producer a minimum guaranteed payment ranging from
approximately $100,000 to $5,000,000 at or after delivery of the
completed film. These minimum guaranteed payments represent varying
portions of the films' production costs, including, on occasion,
substantially all of such costs. These minimum guaranteed payments may
enable the independent producer to obtain financing for the production
and/or completion of the film. By providing these minimum guaranteed
payments, the Company is often able to secure more extensive
distribution rights on more favorable terms.
o a producer. The Company selectively produces motion pictures that it
distributes, generally acquiring fully developed projects ready for
pre-production and contracting out pre-production and production
activities.
The Company has focused primarily on licensing theatrical, video, pay
television, free television, satellite and other distribution rights to foreign
sub-distributors in major international territories and regions. These
activities accounted for approximately 66.3% of the Company's total revenues in
2000.
The Company engages directly in domestic theatrical distribution
through its First Look Pictures division and domestic video distribution through
its First Look Home Entertainment division. The Company's theatrical
distribution activities include booking motion pictures for exhibition at movie
theaters, arranging for the manufacture of release prints from film negatives
and promoting motion pictures with advertising and publicity campaigns. The
Company's video distribution activities include the promotion and sale of
videocassettes to local, regional and national video retailers.
In connection with the Company's establishment of a television
commercial production division, the Company has hired experienced management and
supporting staff, has leased office and production space, and has engaged
directors of television commercial productions.
Corporate Information
The Company was incorporated in Delaware in December 1993 under the
name "Entertainment/Media Acquisition Corporation" in order to acquire an
operating business in the entertainment and media industry. The Company
consummated its initial public offering in February 1995, in which it sold
shares of common stock and warrants to purchase shares of common stock.
In October 1996, the Company merged with Overseas Filmgroup, Inc., a
privately held Delaware corporation ("Overseas Private") that had been operating
since February 1980. The Company was the surviving corporation in the merger.
Upon consummation of the merger, the Company changed its name to "Overseas
Filmgroup, Inc." The Company operated under the name "Overseas Filmgroup, Inc."
until January 2001. In January 2001, the Company changed its name to "First Look
Media, Inc." in order to reflect the broadening of its operations beyond foreign
distribution of independently produced feature films to additional areas such as
theatrical and video distribution in the United States and television commercial
production and Internet content development.
The Company's principal executive offices are located at 8800 Sunset
Boulevard, Third Floor, Los Angeles, California 90069, and its telephone number
is (310) 855-1199.
Recent Developments
On February 13, 2001, the Company filed a registration statement with
the Securities and Exchange Commission, under which it is offering to exchange
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up to 321,429 shares of its common stock for the 4.5 million outstanding
warrants issued in conjunction with the Company's initial public offering in
February 1995. In the exchange offer, the Company will exchange one common share
for every 14 of its outstanding warrants tendered and accepted by the Company
for exchange. In lieu of fractional shares, holders will receive a cash payment
for the equivalent of any shares that the individual would otherwise be entitled
to receive. Holders who elect not to participate in the exchange offer will
retain the right to purchase one share of common stock for $5.00, for each
warrant held. These warrants expire on February 16, 2002. The exchange offer
will commence upon the SEC's declaration of effectiveness of the exchange offer
prospectus and the distribution to warrant holders of such prospectus and
related exchange offer documents, which is expected in the second quarter of
2001. The exchange offer will be made only by means of, and in accordance with
the terms of, the prospectus. If the exchange offer is completed, the Company
intends to deregister the warrants pursuant to the Exchange Act and delist the
warrants from trading on the OTC Bulletin Board.
Strategic Objectives
The Company seeks to become a more significant player in the
entertainment industry, while at the same time managing its risk and cash flow
so as to be able to effectively respond to continuing changes in the
entertainment industry. The Company's strategy to achieve its objectives
includes:
Creating a television commercial production division. The Company has
established a television commercial production division called "First Look
Artists." This division seeks to exploit the current trend in the industry of
utilizing talent not typically associated with advertising, such as high-profile
feature film directors. In this regard, the Company is assembling a roster of
accomplished feature filmmakers who the Company believes can successfully cross
over to the medium of television commercials. The Company also believes that it
can attract proven television commercial directors to its division's projects by
offering such directors access to potential film projects.
Creating a home entertainment division. The Company has launched a home
entertainment division called "First Look Home Entertainment." This division
directly distributes films on videocassette and DVD. The Company's premier
release was Quiet Days in Hollywood, starring Academy Award-winner, Hilary
Swank. The Company intends to release 18 to 24 films into the home entertainment
market during the next 12 months.
Creating an Internet entertainment division. The Company has
established an Internet entertainment division named "First Look Internet." The
Company will utilize its existing rights to content, relationships and expertise
to create and offer desirable entertainment through the Internet.
Utilizing the Company's recently obtained financial resources to expand
its domestic theatrical distribution activities. The Company believes there is
great opportunity in the U.S. theatrical distribution market. Though the Company
has had domestic success with films such as John Sayles' The Secret of Roan
Inish and the Academy Award-winning Antonia's Line, limited financial resources
kept the Company from becoming a more active player in this area. The Company
intends to utilize its expanded financial resources, including its credit
facility with The Chase Manhattan Bank and other commercial banks and financial
institutions, to become increasingly more active in this market. The Company
currently is identifying product and has hired appropriate additional staff to
supplement its domestic theatrical distribution operations.
Capitalizing on the Company's reputation and relationships with foreign
sources. The Company believes that it enjoys a prominent position in the
international independent film marketplace. The Company intends to capitalize on
its reputation and relationships to exploit opportunities in the areas of
production and acquisition financing, especially through private equity and
international sources. These efforts will enable the Company to access
increasingly higher profile films with commercial potential.
Reducing the Company's risk by limiting its direct investment in
acquisition costs and film production. As part of this strategy, the Company:
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o acts as distributor or licenses distribution rights for films
that are produced with funds provided by other parties and not
by the Company; and
o acts on behalf of producers to locate and arrange equity
sources, co-production and co-financing sources, pre-sales,
gap financing and other resources for the production of motion
pictures in exchange for sales and distribution rights to the
films and negotiated fees.
Acquiring films that the Company believes are likely to merit
theatrical release or are suitable for initial release on pay and basic
television. As part of this strategy, the Company:
o acquires films that have recognizable cast, directors and
producers and which embody greater production values, which
the Company believes enhances their audience appeal in the
competitive theatrical market. The Company attempts to
accomplish this by offering more incentives to talent than
offered by major studios such as greater creative and
financial opportunity tied to film performance;
o acquires films that are oriented to basic and pay television
programming needs, such as films with lower budgets or which
target specific genres, such as action films; and
o develops relationships with major studios and seeks to expand
its executive producing role in connection with motion
pictures that other companies produce and distribute.
For additional information about these operational strategies, see
"-Motion Picture Distribution by the Company," "-Acquisition of Rights by the
Company, Production and Financing" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations." No assurances can be given that
any or all of such strategies will be fully or partially realized, as their
successful implementation depends upon, among other things, the ability of the
Company's management to implement these strategies and the availability of
sufficient capital.
The Motion Picture Industry
Generally
The motion picture industry consists of two principal activities:
o production, which encompasses the creation, development and
financing of motion pictures; and
o distribution, which involves the promotion and exploitation of
feature-length motion pictures in a variety of media,
including theatrical exhibition, home video, television and
other ancillary markets, both domestically and
internationally.
The United States motion picture industry is dominated by the major
studios, including The Walt Disney Company, Paramount Pictures Corporation,
Warner Brothers Inc., Universal Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, Sony Pictures
Entertainment, and MGM/UA. The major studios, which historically have produced
and distributed the vast majority of high-grossing theatrical motion pictures
released annually in the United States, are typically large, diversified
corporations that have strong relationships with creative talent, television
broadcasters and channels, Internet service providers, movie theater owners and
others involved in the entertainment industry. The major studios also typically
have extensive national or worldwide distribution organizations and own
extensive motion picture libraries.
Motion picture libraries, consisting of motion picture copyrights and
distribution rights owned or controlled by a film company, can be valuable
assets capable of generating revenues from worldwide commercial exploitation in
existing media and markets, and potentially in future media and markets
resulting from new technologies and applications. The major studios also may own
or be affiliated with companies that own other entertainment related assets such
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as music and merchandising operations and theme parks. The major studios' motion
picture libraries and other entertainment assets may provide a stable source of
earnings which can offset the variations in the financial performance of their
new motion picture releases and other aspects of their motion picture
operations.
During the past 15 years, independent production and distribution
companies, many with financial and other ties to the major studios, have played
an important role in the production and distribution of motion pictures for the
worldwide feature film market. These companies include:
o Miramax Films Corporation, now affiliated with The Walt Disney
Company, which produced Scary Movie, the Scream film series,
Shakespeare in Love and Chocolat;
o New Line Cinema Corporation/Fine Line Features, now affiliated
with Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P., which produced
the Austin Powers films, The Mask, Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles, the Nightmare on Elm Street series;
o USA Films (formerly October Films), which produced Traffic,
Secrets & Lies and Breaking the Waves, together with Gramercy
Pictures, which produced Dead Man Walking and Fargo, is part
of USA Films and USA Network;
o Orion Pictures, now affiliated with MGM/UA, which produced The
Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal;
o Artisan Entertainment Inc., which distributed The Blair Witch
Project; and
o Lion's Gate Films, which distributed American Psycho, Dogma,
Gods and Monsters and Affliction.
As a result of consolidation in the domestic motion picture industry, a
number of previously independent producers and distributors have been acquired
or are otherwise affiliated with major studios. However, there are also a large
number of other production and distribution companies that produce and
distribute motion pictures that have not been acquired or become affiliated with
the major studios. In contrast to the major studios, independent production and
distribution companies generally produce and distribute fewer motion pictures
and do not own production studios, national or worldwide distribution
organizations, associated businesses or extensive film libraries which can
generate gross revenues sufficient to offset overhead, service debt or generate
significant cash flow.
The motion picture industry is a world-wide industry. In addition to
the production and distribution of motion pictures in the United States, motion
picture distributors generate substantial revenues from the exploitation of
motion pictures internationally. In recent years, there has been a substantial
increase in the amount of filmed entertainment revenue generated by U.S. motion
picture distributors from foreign sources. From 1990 to 2000, international
revenues of motion picture distributors from filmed entertainment grew from
approximately $1.1 billion in 1990 to approximately $2.6 billion in 2000. This
growth has been due to a number of factors, including the general worldwide
acceptance of and demand for motion pictures produced in the United States, the
privatization of many foreign television industries, growth in the number of
foreign households with videocassette players and growth in the number of
foreign theater screens.
Many countries and territories, such as Australia, Canada, China,
France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Russia, Japan, Spain, and the United
Kingdom have substantial indigenous film industries. As in the United States, in
a number of these countries the film industry, and in some cases, the
entertainment industry, in general, is dominated by a small number of companies
that maintain large and diversified production and distribution operations.
However, like in the United States, in most of these countries, there are also
smaller, independent, motion picture production and distribution companies.
Foreign distribution companies not only distribute motion pictures produced in
their countries or regions but also films licensed or sub-licensed from United
States production companies and distributors. In addition, film companies in
many foreign countries produce films not only for local distribution, but also
for export to other countries, including the United States. While some foreign
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language films and foreign English-language films appeal to a wide U.S.
audience, most foreign language films distributed in the United States are
released on a limited basis because they draw a specialized audience for which
the appeal has decreased substantially in recent years.
Motion Picture Production
Motion picture production begins with the screenplay adaptation of a
popular novel or other literary work acquired by the producer or the development
of an original screenplay having its genesis in a story line or scenario
conceived by a writer and acquired by the producer. In the development phase,
the producer typically seeks production financing and tentative commitments from
a director, the principal cast members and other creative personnel. A proposed
production schedule and budget also are prepared during this phase.
Pre-production begins upon completing the screenplay and arranging financing
commitments. In this phase, the producer:
o engages creative personnel to the extent not previously
committed;
o finalizes the filming schedule and production budget; obtains
insurance and secures completion guaranties, if necessary;
establishes filming locations and secures any necessary studio
facilities and stages; and
o prepares for the start of actual filming.
Principal photography, which is the actual filming of the screenplay,
generally extends from eight to sixteen weeks for a film produced by a major
studio and for as little as four to eight weeks for low budget films and films
produced by independent production companies. The length of filming depends in
each case upon factors such as budget, location, weather and complications
inherent in the screenplay. Following completion of principal photography, the
film enters the post-production phase. During this phase, the motion picture is
edited, opticals, dialogue, music and any special effects are added, and voice,
effects and music sound tracks and pictures are synchronized. This results in
the production of a negative from which release prints of the motion picture are
made.
Production costs consist primarily of:
o acquiring or developing the screenplay;
o compensating creative and other production personnel;
o film studio and location rentals;
o equipment rentals;
o film stock and other costs incurred in principal photography;
and o post-production costs, including the creation of special
effects and music.
Distribution expenses, which consist primarily of the costs of
advertising and preparing release prints, are not included in direct production
costs. The major studios generally fund production costs from cash flow
generated by motion pictures and related activities or, in some cases, from
unrelated businesses or through off-balance sheet methods. Substantial overhead
costs, consisting largely of salaries and related costs of the production staff
and physical facilities maintained by the major studios, also must be funded.
Independent production companies generally avoid incurring overhead costs as
substantial as those incurred by the major studios by hiring creative and other
production personnel and retaining the other elements required for
pre-production, principal photography and post-production activities on a
picture-by-picture basis. As a result, these companies do not own sound stages
and related production facilities, and, accordingly, do not have the fixed
payroll, general administrative and other expenses resulting from ownership and
operation of a studio. Independent production companies also may finance their
production activities on a picture-by-picture basis. Sources of funds for
independent production companies include bank loans, pre-licensing of
distribution rights, foreign government subsidies, equity offerings and joint
ventures. Independent production companies generally attempt to obtain all or a
substantial portion of their financing of a motion picture prior to commencement
of principal photography, at which point substantial production costs begin to
be incurred and require payment.
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As part of obtaining financing for its films, an independent production
company often is required by its lenders and distributors who advance production
funds to obtain a completion bond or production completion insurance from an
acceptable completion guarantor which names the lenders and applicable
distributors as beneficiaries. The guarantor assures the completion of the
particular motion picture on a certain date. If the motion picture cannot be
completed for the agreed upon budgeted cost, the completion guarantor is
obligated to pay the additional costs necessary to complete the picture by the
agreed upon delivery date. If the completion guarantor fails to timely complete
and deliver the motion picture on or before the agreed upon delivery date, the
completion guarantor is required to pay the lenders and distributor, if
applicable, an amount equal to the aggregate amount the lenders and distributor
have loaned or advanced to the independent producer.
In connection with the production and distribution of a motion picture,
major studios and independent production companies generally grant contractual
rights to actors, directors, screenwriters, owners of rights and other creative
and financial contributors to share in net revenues from a particular motion
picture. Except for the most sought-after talent, these third-party
participations are generally payable after all distribution fees, marketing
expenses, direct production costs and financing costs are recovered in full.
Major studios and independent film companies in the United States
typically incur obligations to pay residuals to various guilds and unions
including the Screen Actors Guild, the Directors Guild of America and the
Writers Guild of America. Residuals are payments required to be made on a
picture-by-picture basis by the motion picture producer to the various guilds
and unions arising from the exploitation of a motion picture in markets other
than the primary intended market. Residuals are calculated as a percentage of
the gross revenues derived from the exploitation of the picture in these
ancillary markets. The guilds and unions typically obtain a security interest in
all of the producer's rights in the motion picture being exploited to ensure
satisfaction of the residuals obligation. This security interest usually is
subordinate to the security interest of the lenders financing the production
cost of the motion picture and the completion bond company guaranteeing
completion of the motion picture. Under a producer's agreement with the guilds
and unions, the producer may transfer the obligation to pay the residuals to a
distributor if the distributor assumes the obligation to make the residual
payment. If the distributor does not assume those obligations, the producer is
obligated to pay those residuals.
Motion Picture Distribution
General
Motion picture distribution involves domestic and international
licensing of the picture for:
o theatrical exhibition;
o videocassettes, laser discs and digital video discs (DVD);
o presentation on television, including pay-per-view, basic and
premium cable, network, syndication or satellite;
o marketing of the other rights in the picture and underlying
literary property, which may include books, merchandising and
soundtracks;
o non-theatrical exhibition, which includes airlines, hotels and
armed forces facilities; and
o exploitation via the Internet, which is still evolving.
Although releases by the major studios typically are licensed and fully
exploited in all of the foregoing media, films produced or distributed by
independent film companies are often not exploited in all of the media. For
example, some films may not receive theatrical exhibition in the United States
or various other territories and instead may be released directly on home video
or as a pay television premiere or otherwise exploited on a pay television
service. In limited circumstances, these films may then be released in theaters.
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Production companies with distribution divisions typically distribute
their motion pictures themselves. Production companies without distribution
divisions may retain the services of sales agents or distributors to exploit the
motion pictures produced by them in selected or all media and territories.
Distribution companies may directly exploit distribution rights licensed to, or
otherwise acquired, by them by booking motion pictures with movie theaters or
selling videocassettes to video retailers. Alternatively, they may grant
sub-licenses to domestic or foreign sub-distributors to exploit completed motion
pictures in particular territories or media.
Acquisition of distribution rights
A sales agent does not generally acquire distribution rights from the
producer or other owner of rights in the motion picture. Instead, he acts as an
agent for the producer or rights owner, licensing the distribution rights to
distributors on behalf of the producer or rights owner in exchange for a sales
agency fee. This fee typically is computed as a percentage of gross revenues
from licenses obtained by the sales agent. A distributor generally licenses and
takes a grant of distribution rights from the producer or other rights owner of
the motion picture for a specified term in a particular territory or territories
and media, generally in exchange for a distribution fee calculated as a
percentage of gross revenues generated by the distributor's exploitation of the
motion picture. The distributor may agree to pay the producer of the motion
picture an advance or a minimum guarantee upon the delivery of the completed
motion picture. This amount is to be recouped by the distributor out of revenues
generated from the exploitation of the motion picture in particular media or
territories. After receiving its ongoing distribution fee and recouping the
advance or minimum guarantee plus its distribution costs, the distributor
generally pays the remainder of revenues in excess of an ongoing distribution
fee to the producer of the motion picture.
Obtaining license agreements with a distributor or distributors prior
to completion of a motion picture which provide for payment of a minimum
guarantee is often referred to as the pre-licensing or pre-selling of film
rights. This pre-selling may enable the producer to obtain financing for its
project by using the contractual commitment of the distributor to pay the
advance or minimum guarantee as collateral to borrow production funding. In the
past, pre-selling of film rights provided a means for financing film production.
However, the ability to pre-sell film rights in various territories and media,
the amount of pre-sales that can be obtained in certain territories and media
and thus, the percentage of a film's budget that can be covered with pre-sales,
fluctuates. In recent years, independent film companies generally have not been
able to pre-sell as great a percentage of a film's budget as they have in past
years.
The producer also may be able to acquire additional production funds
through gap financing. Although gap financing currently is being made available
by multiple lenders, certain banks have ceased providing this type of financing,
and many banks that provide gap financing are becoming more conservative in
their approach to these lending practices. As a result, there can be no
assurance that lenders will continue to make funds available on this basis. In
some circumstances, the distributor is entitled to recover any unrecouped costs
and advances from a film licensed to the distributor from the revenues from
another film or films also licensed to the distributor. This is commonly known
as cross collateralizing.
In addition to obtaining distribution rights in a motion picture for a
limited duration, a distributor also may acquire all or a portion of the
copyright in the motion picture or license certain distribution rights in
perpetuity. Both major studios and independent film companies often acquire
motion pictures for distribution through a customary industry arrangement known
as a negative pickup, under which the studio or independent film company agrees
to pay a specified minimum guaranteed amount to a production company in exchange
for all rights to the film upon completion of production and delivery of the
film. The production company normally finances production of the motion picture
pursuant to financing arrangements with banks and other lenders in which the
lender receives an assignment of the production company's right to payment of
the minimum guarantee and is granted a security interest in the film and in the
production company's rights under its arrangement with the studio or independent
film company. When the major studio or independent film company picks up the
completed motion picture, it pays the minimum guarantee or assumes the
production financing indebtedness incurred by the production company in
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connection with the film. In addition, the production company is paid a
production fee and generally is granted a participation in net revenues from
distribution of the motion picture.
The distribution cycle
Concurrently with their release in the United States, motion pictures
typically are released in Canada and also may be released in one or more other
international markets. Generally, a motion picture that is released theatrically
is available for distribution in other media during its initial distribution
cycle as follows:
Number of months following initial
Marketplace (Media) Domestic theatrical release
Domestic theatrical --
International theatrical --
Domestic home video and DVD (initial release) 4-6 months
Domestic pay-per-view 6-9 months
International home video and DVD (initial release) 6-12 months
Domestic pay television 9-10 months
International television (pay or free) 18-24 months
Domestic free television (network, barter syndication, 30-33 months
syndication and basic cable)
Films often remain in distribution for varying periods of time. For
example, major studio motion pictures that are released theatrically can play in
theaters for several weeks following their initial release or, at times,
including in the case of successful art-house films that are released on a
limited basis, for several months. On the other hand, unsuccessful films may
play in theaters for only a short period of time. Once released on
videocassette, a motion picture may remain available on videocassette for many
years. Similarly a motion picture can be licensed to various forms of television
for many years after its first release. The release periods set forth above
represent standard holdback periods. A holdback period represents a stipulated
period of time during which release of the motion picture in other media is
prevented to allow the motion picture to maximize its value in the media in
which it is currently being released. Holdback periods are often specifically
negotiated with various distributors on a media-by-media basis. However, the
periods set forth above represent our estimate of typical current holdback
periods in the motion picture industry.
In general, if a film is not released theatrically in the United States
and is instead first released on domestic home video, television exploitation
does not commence until four to eight months after the video release.
Thereafter, the same general release patterns indicated in the table above
typically apply. If a film premieres on United States pay television, the pay
television service is typically licensed for a four to six week exclusive airing
period. The license generally will provide for limited airings made up of five
to eight exhibition days with multiple airings permitted on each exhibition day.
The provisions of the license also usually provide for the pay television
service to receive subsequent airing periods following a period in which the
film can be released on video or sometimes even theatrically and a period during
which the film may be broadcast on free television.
A substantial portion of a film's ultimate revenues are generated in
its initial distribution cycle. The initial distribution cycle usually consists
of the first five years after the film's initial domestic release and includes
theatrical, video, and pay and free television. Commercially successful motion
pictures, however, may continue to generate revenues after the film's initial
distribution cycle from the re-licensing of distribution rights in certain media
and from the licensing of distribution rights with respect to new media and
technologies and in emerging markets. Although there has been a substantial
increase over the past fifteen years in the revenues generated from the
licensing of rights in ancillary media such as home video, DVD, cable and
pay-per-view, the theatrical success of a motion picture remains a significant
factor in generating revenues in foreign markets and in other media such as
10
video and television. For example, retail video stores currently purchase fewer
copies of videocassettes of motion pictures that have not been theatrically
released, and purchase more copies of major studio theatrical hits.
Theatrical
The theatrical distribution of a motion picture, whether in the United
States or internationally, involves the licensing and booking of the motion
picture to movie theaters, the promotion of the picture through advertising and
publicity campaigns and the manufacture of release prints from the film
negative. Expenditures on these activities, particularly on promotion and
advertising, are often substantial and may have a significant impact on the
ultimate success of the film's theatrical release. In addition, expenditures can
vary significantly depending upon a number of factors including:
o the markets and regions in which the film is distributed;
o the media used to promote the film such as newspaper,
television and radio;
o the number of screens on which the motion picture is to be
exhibited; and
o the ability to exhibit motion pictures during peak exhibition
seasons.
With a release by a major studio, the vast majority of these costs,
which primarily consist of advertising costs, are incurred prior to the first
weekend of the film's domestic theatrical release. Accordingly, there is not
necessarily a correlation between these costs and the film's ultimate box office
performance. In addition, the ability to distribute a picture during peak
exhibition seasons, including the summer months and the Christmas holidays, and
in the most popular theaters, may affect the theatrical success of a picture.
Films distributed theatrically by an independent film company are sometimes
released on a more limited basis which allows the distributor to defer marketing
costs until it is able to assess the initial public acceptance of the film.
While arrangements for the exhibition of a film vary greatly, there are
certain economic relationships generally applicable to theatrical distribution.
Theater owners retain a portion of the admissions paid at the box office,
typically referred to as gross box office receipts. The share of the gross box
office receipts retained by a theater owner generally includes a fixed amount
per week, in part to cover overhead, plus a percentage of receipts that usually
increases over time. Although these percentages vary widely, a theater owner's
share of a particular film's revenues will normally be approximately 60% to 65%
of gross box office receipts. The balance of the gross box office receipts,
referred to as gross film rentals, is paid to the distributor. The distributor
then retains a distribution fee, which is typically 30-35%, from the gross film
rentals. This percentage is used to recover the costs incurred in distributing
the film, which consist primarily of marketing and advertising costs and the
cost of release prints for exhibition. The balance of gross film rentals, after
deducting distribution fees and distribution costs recouped by the distributors,
is then applied against the recoupment of any advance paid for the distribution
rights plus interest and the balance is paid to the producer or other rights
owner of the film.
Home Video
A motion picture released theatrically typically will become available
for videocassette distribution within four to six months after its initial
domestic theatrical release. Certain films are not initially released
theatrically but may instead be released directly to home video. Given the
increasing preference of retail video stores for successful theatrical releases,
it has become increasingly difficult to secure the initial release of a film
directly to home video, and the economic opportunity for the films where a home
video release is obtained has greatly diminished.
Home video distribution consists of the promotion and sale of
videocassettes to local, regional and national video retailers that rent or sell
videocassettes to consumers primarily for home viewing. Traditionally, films
initially were made available in videocassette form at a wholesale price of
11
approximately $50 to $75 per videocassette. The wholesalers would then resell
the videocassette to video rental stores at a price of approximately $75 to $105
per videocassette. Today, although much video revenue is generated on this
basis, most video revenue is being generated on a "revenue sharing" basis
whereby videocassettes are sold at a very reduced price to video rental stores,
and a percentage of the rental revenue is then shared with the owners or
licensors of the films. Following the initial marketing period, selected films
may be remarketed at a wholesale price of $10 to $15 or less for sale to
consumers. These sell-through arrangements are used most often with films that
will appeal to a broad marketplace or to children. A few major releases with
broad appeal may be initially offered by a film company at a price designed for
sell-through rather than rental when it is believed that the ownership demand by
consumers will result in a sufficient level of sales to justify the reduced
margin on each cassette sold. Today, most home video distribution contracts in
international territories are arranged similarly to those in domestic
territories although the wholesale prices may differ.
Television
Television rights for films initially released theatrically that have
broad appeal generally are licensed:
o first to pay-per-view for an exhibition period within six to
nine months following initial domestic theatrical release;
o then to pay television approximately 12 to 15 months after
initial domestic theatrical release;
o thereafter to basic cable broadcasters or in certain cases to
network television for an exhibition period; and
o then to syndication or "free" television.
Pay-per-view allows subscribers to pay for individual programs. Pay
television allows cable television subscribers to view such services as
HBO/Cinemax, Showtime/The Movie Channel, Encore Media Services or others offered
by their cable system operators for a monthly subscription fee. Pay-per-view and
pay television are now delivered not only by cable, but also by satellite
transmission, and films are usually licensed in both of these media. Films that
are not initially released in the domestic theatrical market may premiere
instead on pay television followed in some limited circumstances by theatrical
release. Groups of motion pictures often are packaged and licensed as a group
for exhibition on television over a period of time and, therefore, revenues from
these television licensing packages may be received over a period that extends
beyond the initial distribution cycle of a particular film. Motion pictures also
are licensed and packaged by producers and distributors for television broadcast
in international markets by government or privately owned television studios and
networks. Pay television is less developed outside the United States, but is
experiencing significant international growth. The prominent foreign pay
television services include Canal+, Premiere, STAR TV, British Sky Broadcasting
and the international operations of several U.S. cable services, including HBO,
the Disney Channel, Turner Broadcasting and DirecTV.
Non-theatrical and other rights
Films may be licensed for use by airlines, schools, public libraries,
community groups, the military, correctional facilities, ships at sea and
others. Music contained in a film may be licensed for sound recording, public
performance and sheet music publication. Rights in motion pictures may be
licensed to merchandisers for the manufacture of products such as toys,
T-shirts, posters and other merchandise. Rights also may be licensed to create
novels from a screenplay and to generate other related book publications, as
well as interactive games on platforms such as CD-ROM and CD-I.
12
Motion Picture Distribution by the Company
International distribution
The Company's management has considerable expertise in international
distribution. Robert B. Little, the Company's co-chairman of the board and
president, has substantial experience in licensing motion pictures for
distribution outside the United States and has been active in international
motion picture sales since 1975. Over the past 25 years, he has developed
relationships with distributors in most territories through the Company's
foreign sales activities. In addition, the Company is a founding member of the
American Film Marketing Association, which sponsors the American Film Market.
The American Film Market, along with the Cannes Film Festival and MIFED, are the
major annual international film markets that are attended by distributors
worldwide. The Company participates annually with a sales office at all three
major film markets, as well as three major television and two major video
markets. The Company also attends many film festivals throughout the world
including Sundance, the Toronto Film Festival and others. From time to time, the
Company also may engage independent representatives to assist it in acquiring
and licensing motion picture rights.
The Company licenses distribution rights internationally in various
media such as theatrical, video, pay television, free television, satellite and
other rights to foreign sub-distributors on either an individual rights basis or
grouped in combinations of rights. The Company licenses these rights to
sub-distributors in international territories either on a picture-by-picture
basis or occasionally pursuant to output arrangements. Currently, the Company's
most important international territories are Australia, the Benelux countries,
Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Scandinavia, Spain and the United
Kingdom.
The terms of the Company's license agreements with foreign
sub-distributors vary depending upon the territory and media involved and
whether the agreement relates to a single or multiple motion pictures. Most of
the Company's license agreements provide that the Company will receive a minimum
guarantee from the foreign sub-distributor with all or a majority of the minimum
guarantee paid prior to, or upon delivery of, the film to the sub-distributor
for release in the particular territory. The remainder of any unpaid minimum
guarantee generally is payable at specified intervals after delivery of the film
to the sub-distributor. The minimum guarantee is recovered by the
sub-distributor out of the revenues generated from exploitation of the picture
in the territory. The foreign sub-distributor retains a negotiated distribution
fee, generally measured as a percentage of the gross revenues generated from its
distribution of the motion picture, recovers its distribution expenses and the
minimum guarantee and ultimately pays the Company the remainder of any receipts
in excess of the distributor's ongoing distribution fee. The Company must rely
on the foreign sub-distributor's ability to successfully exploit the film in
order to receive any proceeds in excess of the minimum guarantee.
The Company occasionally does not receive a minimum guarantee from the
foreign sub-distributor and instead negotiates terms that usually result in an
allocation of gross revenues between the sub-distributor and the Company.
Typically, the terms of these types of arrangements provide for the
sub-distributor to retain an ongoing distribution fee, calculated as a
percentage of the sub-distributor's gross receipts in the territory, recover its
expenses and pay remaining receipts in excess of the ongoing distribution fee to
the Company. Alternatively, often with respect to video rights, the terms may
provide for a royalty to be paid to the Company calculated as a percentage of
the sub-distributor's gross receipts from exploitation of the video rights
without deduction for the sub-distributor's distribution expenses.
At times, the Company enters into output arrangements with local
foreign distributors whereby the foreign sub-distributor receives the right,
typically for a specified period and number of motion pictures, to distribute
motion pictures that the Company has released in a particular territory and
designated media. In some circumstances, the foreign sub-distributor pays the
Company a minimum guarantee on a picture-by-picture basis with each minimum
guarantee having been either pre-negotiated or computed as a stipulated
percentage of the production or acquisition cost of each picture.
Domestic distribution
In addition to obtaining foreign distribution rights, the Company has
been active in acquiring domestic distribution rights. The Company exploits its
domestic distribution rights in a variety of ways. In 1993, the Company
13
established First Look Pictures, its domestic theatrical releasing operation,
and in 1999 the Company began releasing films directly on video. Not all of the
films the Company licenses or distributes receive domestic theatrical release by
First Look Pictures. The Company may license films initially to pay television
services for premiere on pay television, including cable and satellite. The
Company licenses some films to domestic television broadcasters for release
initially on television. The Company also licenses to third party distributors,
such as Fox Searchlight, who may release theatrically and distribute the film in
other media as well. During 2000, the Company acquired domestic distribution
rights to seventeen films. The Company theatrically released two of these films
during 2000 and expects to release three more during 2001. The Company has
licensed one film to a third party domestic distributor for theatrical and other
exploitation, seven films were or are intended to be released straight to video
and three films will either be released initially on television or on video.
The Company occasionally licenses domestic video rights of a film to
sub-distributors, including Blockbuster, Inc. and USA Films. In addition, the
Company has created First Look Home Entertainment, which has released 15 films
on video in 2000 and expects to release approximately 22 films in 2001.
The Company licenses distribution rights directly to pay television
services including HBO, Showtime and Encore, as well as smaller services,
pay-per-view services and basic cable services, including USA, Lifetime, Bravo
and the Independent Film Channel. Although the Company has not engaged in
significant licensing or syndication of domestic free television rights except
as part of a license of rights in multiple media, the Company controls these
rights to a significant portion of the films in the Company's library and has
licensed these rights in certain films to third parties.
In some cases, the Company will license the right to distribute a film
domestically in multiple media to a major studio, a division of a major studio
or an independent distributor. Although the terms of these licenses vary, the
Company typically will be paid a minimum guarantee. The sub-distributor then
retains a distribution fee, measured as a percentage of the gross receipts
received by the sub-distributor from exploitation of the film, recovers its
distribution costs and the advance paid to the Company, and ultimately pays the
Company the remainder of any receipts in excess of an ongoing distribution fee.
The Company does not always receive a minimum guarantee from the
licensing of distribution rights to foreign and domestic sub-distributors. This
has caused the Company to rely more heavily on the actual financial performance
of the film being distributed. In some circumstances, whether the Company
receives a minimum guarantee depends upon the media. For example, in the case of
motion pictures that have not been theatrically released, the Company is
increasingly entering into video distribution arrangements with sub-distributors
where no minimum guarantee is paid to the Company or where the minimum guarantee
paid to the Company is significantly less than those paid to the Company for
similar films in the past. In addition, even if the Company does obtain minimum
guarantees from its sub-distributors, the minimum guarantees do not assure the
profitability of the Company's motion pictures or its operations. Additional
revenues may be necessary from distribution of a motion picture to enable the
Company to recover any investment in the motion picture in excess of the
aggregate minimum guarantees obtained from sub-distributors, pay for
distribution costs, pay for ongoing acquisition and development of other motion
pictures by the Company and cover general overhead. While the pre-licensing of
distribution rights to sub-distributors in exchange for minimum guarantees may
reduce some of the Company's risk from unsuccessful films, it also may result in
the Company receiving lower revenues with respect to highly successful films.
First Look Pictures
Some of the motion pictures for which the Company controls domestic
rights are directly distributed to theaters throughout the United States through
First Look Pictures. During 2000, First Look Pictures released three films and
broadened the release of one film initially released in December 1999. Although
some of First Look Pictures' future releases may appeal to a wide audience, many
of the First Look Pictures' releases to date have been foreign language and
art-house films intended to appeal primarily to sophisticated audiences.
14
The Company believes that it can benefit in several ways by
theatrically distributing films in the United States directly through First Look
Pictures. The domestic theatrical success of a motion picture can be a
significant factor in generating revenues from its distribution in ancillary
media and foreign markets. For example, retail video stores purchase few copies
of videocassettes of motion pictures that have not been theatrically released.
In addition, the Company believes it is generally able to obtain more favorable
distribution terms in its agreements with foreign and domestic sub-distributors
in other media with respect to motion pictures that have been theatrically
released in the United States. The Company also believes that, in some cases,
First Look Pictures' operations enable it to achieve domestic theatrical release
for films that might not otherwise be released in U.S. theaters. In addition,
the Company believes that its ability to release a film theatrically in the U.S.
enables it to attract more recognizable talent, higher profile producers and
more promising motion picture projects for both domestic and foreign
distribution and that by theatrically releasing films itself in the United
States, the Company can retain a significantly greater share of the revenue from
domestic media in the event of a highly successful theatrical release.
Films distributed theatrically in the United States by First Look
Pictures typically have been released on a limited basis to initially less than
100 screens and in selected cities, expanding to new cities or regions based
upon the performance of the film. Some films that are released in new cities as
prints become available from cities where the engagement has closed, reducing
the number of prints needed and the aggregate cost of the prints. The Company
may release appropriate films with more mass market appeal on a wide release
basis either through First Look Pictures or, more likely, by licensing the film
to a domestic distributor with more significant financial and distribution
resources.
The cost to First Look Pictures to distribute a specialized motion
picture or art-house film on a limited-release basis has typically ranged from
approximately $100,000 to $2,000,000. Expenditures for prints, marketing and
advertising represent a substantial portion of the costs of releasing a film. In
connection with the acquisition of domestic theatrical rights to a film, the
Company occasionally commits to spend no less than a specified minimum amount
for prints and advertising costs. These costs are in addition to the direct
production or acquisition costs and other distribution expenses of the films.
Generally, in addition to receiving a distribution fee, the Company is
entitled to recover its print and advertising expenditures. Although First Look
Pictures may at times utilize standard broadcast television advertising, First
Look Pictures typically supports its limited releases with local newspaper and,
in certain instances, some cable television advertising. First Look Pictures
also relies on local and national publicity, such as reviews or articles in
local and national publications and appearances of a film's principal artists on
radio and television talk shows. In contrast, distributors of national, wide
release films rely primarily on national advertising campaigns, including
substantial television advertising, to attract theatergoers.
The success of a domestic theatrical release by First Look Pictures can
be affected by a number of factors outside the Company's control. These factors
include:
o audience and critical acceptance;
o the availability of motion picture screens;
o the success of competing films in release;
o awards won by First Look Pictures' releases or that of its
competition;
o inclement weather; and
o competing televised events such as sporting and news events.
15
As a result of the foregoing, and depending upon audience acceptance of
the films distributed through First Look Pictures, the Company expects that in
some cases it may not recover all of its distribution expenses or derive any
profit solely from domestic theatrical distribution revenue of First Look
Pictures' releases. In addition, the Company cannot assure that total revenues
from any First Look Pictures' release, including revenues derived from the film
in ancillary media and international markets, will be sufficient to allow the
Company to recover all of its costs or to realize a profit.
During 2000, First Look Pictures released the following four motion
pictures:
Title Major Creative Elements Storyline Release Date
- --------------------------- ---------------------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------------
A Map of the World Producers: Kathleen Kennedy and A journey to discover December 1999 for a one
Frank Marshall (The Sixth Sense, the meaning of week Oscar qualifying run
The Color Purple, E.T.) friendship, the and then re-released in
Director: Scott Elliott strength of family and January 2000
Cast: Sigourney Weaver (the the power of forgiveness
Alien Series, Gorillas in The
Mist, Working Girl), Julianne
Moore (Hannibal, The End of The
Affair, Boogie Nights), Chloe
Sevigny, (Boys Don't Cry, The
Last Days of Disco)
The Opportunists Executive Producer: Jonathan An ex-con is having a Summer 2000
Demme (Philadelphia, That Thing hard time making ends
You Do) meet and an alleged
Director: Myles Connell long-lost Irish cousin
Cast: Christopher Walken convinces him to go
(The Deer Hunter, Pulp Fiction), along on one more heist
Peter McDonald (Felicia's
Journey), Cyndi Lauper (Mrs.
Parker and the Vicious Circle)
Ratcatcher Executive Producer: Andrea Portrait of an October 2000
Calderwood impoverished Glasgow
Director: Lynne Ramsay, Jr. community in the 1970s
Cast: William Eadie, Tommy through the eyes of a
Flanagan, Mandy Matthews 12-year old boy
Me and Isaac Newton Executive Producer: Michael A documentary in which November 2000
Apted, Jody Patton seven scientists
Director: Michael Apted explain their work and
Cast: Gertrude Ellon, Ashok the roles that
Gadgil, Michio Kaku creativity and
invention play in their
research
The Company anticipates the release of the following films by First
Look Pictures in the first half of 2001:
Anticipated
Title Major Creative Elements Storyline Release Date
- --------------------------- ---------------------------------- ------------------------- ---------------
Chopper Executive Producer: Al Clark Standover man, April 2001
Director: Andrew Dominik underworld executioner
Cast: Eric Bana and inventive
raconteur, Mark
`Chopper' Read is
Australia's most
infamous criminal and
best-selling author.
This is the story.
A Question of Faith Executive Producer: Edward R. In the heart of May 2001
Pressman California wine country
Director: Tim Disney lies a monastery where
Cast: Martha Hackett, Bernard centuries-old
Hill traditions of ritual,
discipline and solitude
create a timeless
serenity-until one
dazzling moment changes
everything.
Bread & Tulips Producer: Daniele Maggioni Vacationing alone in June 2001
(Pane e Tulipani) Director: Silvio Seldini Venice, Italy, a woman
Cast: Lucia Maglietto, Bruno rediscovers her past
Ganz, Giuseppe Battiston and the freedom of a
forgotten life.
But when her
husband hires an
inept detective
to find her,
hilarity and
poignancy ensues
in this romantic
comedy.
The Company cannot assure that the motion pictures scheduled for
release by First Look Pictures in 2001 or any motion pictures thereafter will
actually be released or released in accordance with its anticipated schedule.
The motion picture business is subject to numerous uncertainties, including
financing requirements, personnel availability and the release schedule of
competing films.
17
Acquisition of Rights by the Company, Production and Financing
The Company acquires sales and distribution rights from a wide variety
of independent production companies and producers. The Company generally
acquires these rights to single films, as compared to acquiring films pursuant
to multi-picture acquisition agreements with independent film companies or
producers. The Company commits to acquire rights to motion pictures at various
stages in the completion of a film, from films completed and ready for release
to developed or undeveloped film projects for which the Company may arrange
financing or production services to complete. In acquiring rights, the Company
generally seeks to obtain rights to commercially appealing motion pictures with
substantially lower direct negative costs than motion pictures released by the
major studios.
In order to fund the acquisition costs of the films for which the
Company acquires rights, the Company has primarily relied on:
o Company's credit facility,
o other lenders willing to finance the Company's contractual
minimum guarantee obligations to the films' producers or
rights owners;
o working capital;
o pre-sales;
o gap financing;
o insurance backed financing structures; and
o other third party equity sources such as private investors.
The films that the Company sells, licenses and distributes generally
have direct negative costs ranging from $1,000,000 to $7,000,000. The Company
may acquire rights to finance or produce motion pictures with direct negative
costs and marketing costs below or substantially in excess of the average direct
negative costs and marketing costs of the films that the Company has
distributed. As part of the Company's overall business strategy, the Company
intends to emphasize films with more recognizable cast, directors and producers
and greater production values and which may accordingly have broader appeal in
the competitive theatrical market. The Company also will attempt to limit its
exposure with respect to production and acquisition costs through gap financing
and accessing equity sources such as private investors.
The Company sometimes acquires limited distribution or sales rights and
acquires worldwide rights, at times including the copyright, to the films.
Generally, this depends upon whether the Company agrees to pay the producer or
other rights owner a substantial minimum guarantee. As part of the Company's
acquisition of theatrical, video and television distribution rights, the Company
may obtain the right to exploit ancillary rights, such as music or sound track
rights, merchandising rights, or rights to produce CD-ROMs or other interactive
media products. Although the Company may license these rights to
sub-distributors, the Company historically has not derived any significant
revenues from these ancillary rights.
The Company occasionally is appointed as the sales agent for a
particular motion picture to license, on behalf of the rights owner,
distribution rights in the film to various distributors for exploitation on a
territory-by-territory basis. This often occurs in conjunction with gap
financing or insurance backed financing arrangements. When the Company acts as a
sales agent, the Company generally is entitled to a sales agency fee which
typically ranges from approximately 10% to 20% of the gross revenues from
resulting licenses or sales. However, this fee may be higher or lower depending
upon the film. The Company generally advances limited funds toward the marketing
and distribution of the film which generally range from $50,000 to $150,000. In
various arrangements, a portion or all of the sales agency fee and some or all
of the distribution expenses may be deferred as part of the sales agency
arrangement until a specified level of revenues from sale and licensing of the
particular distribution rights is achieved.
18
The Company also may act in much the same manner as a distributor but,
rather than licensing the distribution rights of a particular film to a third
party on behalf of the rights owner, the Company licenses the distribution
rights in the film from the rights owner and sub-licenses those rights to
distributors in various territories. The Company then exploits the distribution
rights for a given term in a given territory or territories and media. The fee
structure and funds provided for marketing and distribution remain similar to
that of a sales agency. Since 1998, the Company has acted in this manner, or as
a sales agent, more frequently than in prior years.
In both a sales agency arrangement and the distribution arrangement
described above, the amounts payable by the Company to the rights owner depend
upon the Company success in licensing the film and the financial performance of
the film itself. In acquiring distribution rights to a completed or incomplete
film, however, the Company may agree to pay the rights owner a minimum guarantee
that is independent of the financial performance of the film. Historically, the
minimum guarantees paid by the Company have ranged from approximately $100,000
to $5,000,000, although in some circumstances they may exceed these amounts.
Depending upon the particular arrangement, a minimum guarantee may be payable in
full at the time of delivery of the completed film or in installments following
complete delivery of the film. The rights owner also may receive additional
payments as a result of the Company's exploitation of the distribution rights to
the film. After receiving a distribution fee and recovering the Company's
distribution expenses and minimum guarantee, the Company pays the remainder of
revenues in excess of an ongoing distribution fee to the rights owner.
The Company typically receives a larger share of gross receipts from
the license and distribution of motion pictures for which the Company has
provided a minimum guarantee than from those that the Company does not. At
times, the minimum guarantee paid by the Company may represent all or a
substantial portion of the film's production costs. In those circumstances, the
Company generally receives worldwide distribution rights in all media and
generally will also obtain ownership of the copyright to the film, with the
production company from which the Company acquired the rights receiving a
production fee and generally a participation in net revenues from distribution
of the motion picture. In 2000, the Company provided minimum guarantees for only
one film, which represented a majority of the final production costs of the
film. The Company currently intends to become more active in providing minimum
guarantees.
The Company's commitment to pay a minimum guarantee with respect to
films that have not begun production often enables the production company or
producer to obtain financing for its project, if needed. In some cases, the
Company's contractual commitment to pay a minimum guarantee upon delivery of a
film serves as sufficient collateral for a bank to lend production funds. The
bank typically will insure delivery of the film to the Company by requiring the
producer to purchase a completion guaranty. To enable the production company or
producer to borrow production funding, or to borrow at preferential bank fees
and interest rates, the Company also may have to secure the Company's purchase
or acquisition commitment, which the Company generally has done by obtaining a
letter of credit from the Company's lenders. In some situations, the production
company or producer of a film initially may obtain funds:
o from other distribution companies that obtain distribution
rights in specified media or territories, for example, the
domestic distribution rights or distribution rights in Germany
or the United Kingdom;
o by accessing foreign governmental film industry incentive
programs such as programs offered in the past by the
Netherlands, Isle of Man, the United Kingdom, Canada,
Australia and New Zealand; or
o by using its own resources or other resources available to it,
and subsequently approaching the Company to supply the
remaining funds necessary to complete or co-finance the film
in exchange for the Company obtaining the remaining
distribution rights to the motion picture.
The Company has not been actively involved in co-financing
arrangements. However, the Company intends to increase its participation in
these arrangements. When the Company participates in co-financing arrangements,
the Company will commit to fund a portion of a particular film's production
costs in combination with other equity providers. The Company also intends to
further develop relationships with major studios and expand the Company's
executive producing role in connection with motion pictures produced and
distributed by other companies.
19
In June 2000, the Company entered into a "first look" agreement with
The Little Film Company, Inc. and Ellen Dinerman Little, the Company's former
co-chairman, co-chief executive officer and president. The agreement provides
for a three-year term ending in June 2003. Under this agreement, the Company
will have an exclusive "first look" on any project that The Little Film Company
owns or controls or which it has the right to submit to the Company or any
project that it has the right to acquire or may wish to acquire for development
or production. The agreement also provides for the Company to pay The Little
Film Company annual overhead for office space and related expenses, an annual
fee and a discretionary revolving development fund. The Company also will
compensate The Little Film Company on a project-by-project basis.
In connection with the purchase of certain of the Company's securities
by Rosemary Street Productions, LLC in June 2000, Rosemary Street assigned to
the Company a first look agreement with Grandview Pictures LLC and Jon Kilik.
The agreement provides for a three-year term ending in May 2002, which the
Company may renew for an additional two-year term. Under the agreement, the
Company will have an exclusive "first look" on any project that Grandview
Pictures wants to produce and which it owns or controls or which it has the
right to submit to the Company under the agreement or which it has the right to
acquire or may wish to acquire for development and/or production, or has been
authorized by third parties to submit to the Company for development and/or
production, as a feature length theatrical motion picture or television
production. The agreement also provides for the Company to pay to Grandview
Pictures annual overhead for its New York office, including an annual salary for
Jon Kilik and fees for Kilik's production services based on the cash budget of
the applicable pictures. The Company also will compensate Grandview Pictures for
each theatrical or television motion picture produced by Kilik.
The Company did not produce any of the films that it distributed in
2000. The Company currently plans to produce at least one motion picture in 2001
entitled Skins, which is the first film to be produced under the Company's first
look agreement with Grandview Pictures. When the Company has produced a film,
the Company's production subsidiaries typically have obtained production
financing by obtaining production loans using the Company's minimum guarantee
commitment as collateral, at times secured by a letter of credit issued under
the Company's credit facilities. The Company attempts to minimize the risks
associated with any development and production activities that it conducts in a
variety of ways. The Company does not maintain a substantial staff of creative
or technical personnel. The Company also does not own or operate sound stage and
related production facilities and, accordingly, does not have the fixed payroll,
general and administrative and other expenses resulting from such ownership. In
addition, in those circumstances where the Company produces a film, it generally
attempts to acquire fully developed projects ready for pre-production with, when
feasible, completed scripts, directors and cast members who are committed to or
are interested in the project. Many projects also have a producer involved or
committed. However, if at the time of the Company's acquisition of rights in a
project, a producer is not formally or informally committed to a project, the
Company may also engage a production services company or a producer to supervise
and arrange all pre-production, production and post-production activities in
exchange for a production fee and a participation in net revenues from the film.
The following chart provides information regarding completed motion
pictures first made available to the Company for distribution during 2000 other
than those films described under "- Motion Picture Distribution by the
Company-First Look Pictures." The chart includes acquisitions of rights from
unaffiliated production companies or other rights owners, as well as from
production companies that the Company owns or controls.
Motion Picture Title Genre Territories Acquired Selected Cast
- -------------------- ----- -------------------- -------------
Before Night Falls Drama Universe excluding the United Javier Bardem (Academy Award(R)nominee for
States and Canada Best Actor), Andrea di Stefano, Olivier
Martinez, Johnny Depp (Platoon, Chocolat,
Ed Wood), Sean Penn (Sweet and Lowdown,
Dead Man Walking, Carlito's Way), Michael
Wincott (Alien: Resurrection, The Crow,
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves)
20
Motion Picture Title Genre Territories Acquired Selected Cast
- -------------------- ----- -------------------- -------------
Chasing Beauties Comedy Universe excluding the United Hill Harper (He Got Game, Get on the Bus,
States Beloved), Heather Gottlieb, Nicole Ari
Parker (The End of Violence, Hairspray,
Boogie Nights)
Dead Babies Comedy Universe excluding the United Paul Bettany (Land Girls, Suicide Club,
Kingdom and Scandinavia Bent), Olivia Williams (The Sixth Sense,
Rushmore, The Postman), Charlie Condou
Ed Gein Thriller Universe Steve Railsback (Disturbing Behavior, Barb
Wire), Carrie Snodgress
Envy Thriller Universe excluding Canada and the Linda Cropper, Anna Lise Phillips, Wade
United States Osborne, Jeff Truman
Falling Through Thriller United States Peter Weller (Robocop, Mighty Aphrodite),
Roy Scheider (All That Jazz, The French
Connection, Jaws)
Following Thriller Universe excluding Canada and the Jeremy Theobald, Alex Haw, Lucy Russell,
United States John Nolan
Full Disclosure Thriller Universe Fred Ward (Road Trip, Short Cuts, Bob
Roberts, Thunderheart), Christopher Plummer
(The Insider, Twelve Monkeys),Penelope Ann
Miller (Carlito's Way, Chaplin,
Awakenings), Rachel Ticotin (Con Air, Don
Juan DeMarco), Virgina Madsen (The
Haunting, The Rainmaker, Ghosts of the
Mississippi)
Graduation Week Comedy Universe Nicholle Tom (The Nanny, Beethoven),
Albanna Ubach (All of It, Clockwatchers,
johns), John Livingston (The Net, Mr.
Wrong, EdTV), Irene Ng, Jack Noseworthy
(Cecil B. Demented, U-571, Unconditional
Love), Devon Odessa (My So Called Life),
Sean Patrick Thomas (Can't Hardly Wait,
Cruel Intentions)
Greenfingers Comedy Universe Clive Owen (Croupier), Helen Mirren
(Teaching Mrs. Tingle, The Pledge, Mosquito
Coast), David Kelly (Waking Ned Devine),
Natasha Little, Warren Clarke
21
Motion Picture Title Genre Territories Acquired Selected Cast
- -------------------- ----- -------------------- -------------
Here's to Life Comedy Universe excluding the United Eric McCormack (Will and Grace), James
Kingdom, Canada and the United Whitmore (Shawshank Redemption, Nuts,
States Planet of the Apes), Kim Hunter, Ossie
Davis (Dr. Doolittle, Get on the Bus, I'm
Not Rappaport)
Housebound Thriller Universe Peter Sarsgaard (Boys Don't Cry,
Unconditional Love, Desert Blue), Kathatina
Wressnig, Angeline Ball, Geoffrey Lower
Life Before This Drama/Thriller United States Stephen Rea (The End of the Affair, The
Crying Game, Crime of the Century),
Catherine O'Hara (Nightmare Before
Christmas, Home Alone Series, Beetlejuice),
Joe Pantoliano (The Matrix, Memento, The
Fugitive), Sarah Polley (The Sweet
Hereafter, Go)
Proximity Thriller/Action Universe excluding Germany and the Rob Lowe (The West Wing, St. Elmo's Fire),
United States James Coburn (Affliction, The Nutty
Professor, The Player)
Relative Values Romantic Comedy Universe Julie Andrews (The Sound of Music, Mary
Poppins), William Baldwin (Primary Suspect,
Virus, Bulworth, Flatliners), Jeanne
Tripplehorn (The Firm, Basic Instinct,
Timecode), Colin Firth (Shakespeare in
Love, The English Patient), Stephen Fry
Something More Drama United States Michael Goorjian (Party of Five, Chaplin,
David's Mother), Jennifer Beals
(Flashdance, Without Malice, Last Days of
Disco), Chandra West, David Lovgren
(Antitrust)
Sunstorm Action Universe Bo Derek (10, Bolero, Tommy Boy), Stacy
Keach (American History X, The Sea Wolf),
Elena Llyons
The Company's Film Library of Distribution Rights
The Company's film library consists of rights to a broad range of
films, most of which were produced since 1980. At December 31, 2000, the Company
had various distribution rights to more than 250 motion pictures, including more
than 77 motion pictures in which the Company owns an interest in the copyright
and approximately 74 motion pictures for which the Company acts as sales agent
on behalf of the producer or other rights owner in the film. The Company's
distribution rights generally range from 12 to 25 years or more from the date of
acquisition, and typically extend to many, if not all, media for exhibition
worldwide or in specified territories.
22
In addition to exploitation of distribution rights to motion pictures
in the Company's library in the major media, the Company is able to exploit
various ancillary rights in the films under certain situations. The Company has
arranged for the music in several motion pictures that it has distributed to be
released as soundtrack recordings, including Waking Ned Devine, A Merry War,
Mrs. Dalloway, The Secret of Roan Inish, Party Girl, The Big Squeeze and
Infinity. Although exploitation of these soundtracks and other ancillary rights
have not generated significant revenues for the Company to date, the Company's
ownership or control of ancillary rights to motion pictures in the Company's
library, including interactive rights, remake rights and merchandising rights,
may provide future sources of additional revenues.
Additionally, the Company has granted to Yahoo! Inc. the right to
exploit on the Internet approximately fifty titles from the Company's film
library on a revenue sharing basis.
Major Customers
In 1998, Fox Searchlight accounted for $5,000,000 or 19.5% of the
Company's revenues. In 1999, Buena Vista accounted for $3,500,000 or 10.4% of
the Company's revenues. During the year ended December 31, 2000, USA Network
accounted for $3,014,000 or 13.3% of the Company's total revenues.
Employees
As of April 12, 2001, the Company employed 47 full-time employees and 3
part-time employees. Some of the Company's subsidiaries are or may become
subject to the terms in effect from time to time of various industry-wide
collective bargaining agreements, including the Writers Guild of America, the
Directors Guild of America, the Screen Actors Guild and the International
Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. The Company may assume a production
company's obligation to pay residuals to these various entertainment guilds and
unions. A strike, job action or labor disturbance by the members of any of these
entertainment guilds and unions could have a material adverse effect on the
production of a motion picture within the United States, and, consequently, on
the Company's business, operations and results of operations. These
organizations all have engaged in strikes and similar activities. The Company
believes that its current relationship with its employees is satisfactory.
Competition
Motion picture distribution, finance and production are highly
competitive businesses. The competition comes both from companies within the
same business and from companies in other entertainment media that create
alternative forms of leisure entertainment. The Company competes with major film
studios including:
o The Walt Disney Company;
o Paramount Pictures Corporation;
o Universal Pictures;
o Sony Pictures Entertainment;
o Twentieth Century Fox;
o Warner Brothers Inc.; and
o MGM/UA and their affiliates, including previously independent
companies such as Miramax and New Line Cinema which are
dominant in the motion picture industry.
The Company also competes with numerous independent and foreign motion
picture production and distribution companies. Many of the organizations with
which the Company competes have significantly greater financial and other
resources than the Company. For instance, German-based and multinational
production and distribution companies recently have been successful in raising
significant capital in equity financings in Germany. The Company's ability to
compete successfully depends upon the continued availability of independently
produced, domestic and foreign motion pictures and the Company's ability to
identify and acquire distribution rights to, and successfully license and
23
distribute, motion pictures with commercial potential. A number of formerly
independent motion picture companies have been acquired in recent years by major
entertainment companies. These transactions have significantly increased
competition for the acquisition of distribution rights to independently produced
motion pictures.
Films that the Company distributes or finances also compete for
audience acceptance and exhibition outlets with motion pictures that other
companies distribute and produce. As a result, the success of any of the films
that the Company distributes or finances is dependent not only on the quality
and acceptance of that particular film, but also on the quality and acceptance
of other competing films released into the marketplace at or near the same time.
With respect to the Company's domestic theatrical releasing operations, a
substantial majority of the motion picture screens in the United States
typically are committed at any one time to films distributed nationally by the
major film studios, which generally buy large amounts of advertising on
television and radio and in newspapers and can command greater access to
available screens. Although some movie theaters specialize in the exhibition of
independent, specialized motion pictures and art-house films, there is intense
competition for screen availability for these films as well. Given the
substantial number of motion pictures released theatrically in the United States
each year, competition for exhibition outlets and audiences is intense. In
addition, there also have been rapid technological changes over the past fifteen
years. Although technological developments have resulted in the creation of
additional revenue sources from the licensing of rights with respect to new
media, these developments also have resulted in increased popularity and
availability of alternative and competing forms of leisure time entertainment
including pay/cable television programming and home entertainment equipment such
as videocassettes, interactive games and computer/Internet use.
Regulation
In 1994, the United States was unable to reach an agreement with its
major international trading partners to include audio-visual works, such as
television programs and motion pictures, under the terms of the General
Agreement on Trade and Tariffs Treaty. The failure to include audio-visual works
under the treaty allows many countries to continue enforcing quotas that
restrict the amount of United States-produced television programming which may
be aired on television in those countries. The Council of Europe has adopted a
directive requiring all member states of the European Union to enact laws
specifying that broadcasters must reserve a majority of their transmission time,
exclusive of news, sports, game shows and advertising, for European works. The
directive does not itself constitute law, but must be implemented by appropriate
legislation in each member country. In addition, France requires that original
French programming constitute a required portion of all programming aired on
French television. These quotas generally apply only to television programming
and not to theatrical exhibition of motion pictures, but quotas on the
theatrical exhibition of motion pictures could also be enacted in the future.
The Company cannot assure that additional or more restrictive theatrical or
television quotas will not be enacted or that countries with existing quotas
will not more strictly enforce such quotas. Additional or more restrictive
quotas or more stringent enforcement of existing quotas could materially and
adversely affect the Company's business by limiting the Company's ability to
fully exploit its rights in motion pictures internationally and, consequently,
to assist or participate in the financing of these motion pictures.
Distribution rights to motion pictures are granted legal protection
under the copyright laws of the United States and most foreign countries. These
laws provide substantial civil and criminal sanctions for unauthorized
duplication and exhibition of motion pictures. Motion pictures, musical works,
sound recordings, art work, still photography and motion picture properties are
separate works subject to copyright under most copyright laws, including the
United States Copyright Act of 1976, as amended. The Company is aware of reports
of extensive unauthorized misappropriation of videocassette rights to motion
pictures which may include motion pictures distributed by us. Motion picture
piracy is an industry-wide problem. The Motion Picture Association of America,
an industry trade association, operates a piracy hotline and investigates all
reports of such piracy. Depending upon the results of investigations,
appropriate legal action may be brought by the owner of the rights. Depending
upon the extent of the piracy, the Federal Bureau of Investigation may assist in
these investigations and related criminal prosecutions.
Motion picture piracy is also an international problem. Motion picture
piracy is extensive in many parts of the world, including South America, Asia
including Korea, China and Taiwan, the countries of the former Soviet Union and
24
other former Eastern bloc countries. In addition to the Motion Picture
Association, the Motion Picture Export Association, the American Film Marketing
Association and the American Film Export Association monitor the progress and
efforts made by various countries to limit or prevent piracy. In the past, these
various trade associations have enacted voluntary embargoes of motion picture
exports to certain countries in order to pressure the governments of those
countries to become more aggressive in preventing motion picture piracy. In
addition, the United States government has publicly considered trade sanctions
against specific countries that do not prevent copyright infringement of United
States produced motion pictures. The Company cannot assure that voluntary
industry embargoes or United States government trade sanctions will be enacted.
If enacted, these actions could impact the amount of revenue that the Company
realizes from the international exploitation of motion pictures depending upon
the countries subject to and the duration of such action. If not enacted or if
other measures are not taken, the motion picture industry as a whole, and the
Company's business in particular, may continue to lose an indeterminate amount
of revenues as a result of motion picture piracy.
The Code and Ratings Administration of the Motion Picture Association
assigns ratings indicating age-group suitability for theatrical distribution of
motion pictures. The Company sometimes, although not always, submits the
Company's motion pictures for these ratings. In certain circumstances, motion
pictures that the Company did not submit for rating might have received
restrictive ratings, including, in some circumstances, the most restrictive
rating which prohibits theatrical attendance by persons below the age of
seventeen. Unrated motion pictures, or motion pictures receiving the most
restrictive rating, may not be exhibited in certain movie theaters or in certain
locales, thereby potentially reducing the total revenues generated by these
films. United States television stations and networks, as well as foreign
governments, impose additional restrictions on the content of motion pictures
which may restrict in whole or in part theatrical or television exhibition in
particular territories. In 1997, the major broadcast networks and the major
television production companies implemented a system to rate television
programs. This television rating system has not had a material adverse effect on
the motion pictures distributed by the Company. However, the possibility exists
that the sale of theatrical motion pictures for broadcast on domestic free
television may become more difficult because of potential advertiser
unwillingness to purchase advertising time on television programs that are rated
for limited audiences. The Company cannot assure that current and future
restrictions on the content of motion pictures may not limit or adversely affect
the Company's ability to exploit certain motion pictures in particular
territories and media.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's principal executive offices are located at 8800 Sunset
Boulevard, Third Floor, Los Angeles, California and consist of approximately
10,000 square feet of office space. The Company's lease payments are
approximately $20,000 per month. The lease expires on September 30, 2002. Under
the terms of the lease, the Company became responsible in October 1999 for a
percentage of operating costs above a base year calculation.
In May 2001, the Company entered into a sublease for 4,000 square feet
of office and production space located at 2932 Nebraska Avenue, Santa Monica,
California for its television commercial production operations. The term of the
sublease is through March 31, 2003 and provides for an annual rent of $108,000.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is engaged in legal proceedings incidental to its normal
business activities. In the opinion of management, none of these proceedings are
material in relation to the Company's financial position.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
Not applicable.
25
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Since January 11, 2001, the Company's common stock and warrants have
been quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbols "FRST" and "FRSTW,"
respectively. Prior to that date, the Company's common stock and warrants were
quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbols "OSFG" and "OSFGW,"
respectively. The following table sets forth the high and low closing bid
quotations for the periods indicated. The quotations represent prices between
dealers and do not include retail markups or markdowns or commissions. They may
not necessarily represent actual transactions.
Common Stock Warrants
------------------- ---------------------
1999 High($) Low($) High($) Low($)
---- --- ---- ---
First quarter....... 3-1/8 2-1/16 1/2 1/4
Second quarter...... 2-15/16 2-11/16 1/4 3/16
Third quarter....... 3-3/8 2-1/4 9/16 1/8
Fourth quarter...... 2-3/4 2-1/4 5/16 1/8
2000
First quarter....... 2-7/8 2-1/4 1/4 1/8
Second quarter ..... 2-1/2 2 1/8 1/16
Third quarter....... 2-1/8 1-3/4 1/8 1/16
Fourth quarter...... 1-7/8 1-1/2 1/8 1/8
As of April 12, 2001, there were approximately 28 holders of record of
the Company's common stock and there were 9,803,906 shares of common stock
issued and outstanding. As of April 12, 2001, there were approximately 10
holders of record of the Company's warrants and there were 4,500,000 warrants
issued and outstanding.
On April 12, 2001 the last reported sale price of the Company's common
stock as reported on the OTC Bulletin Board was $0.51. On April 12, 2001, the
last reported sale price of the Company's warrants was $.03.
Dividends
The Company has not paid cash dividends on its common stock and the
Company presently intends to retain future earnings to finance the expansion and
development of its business and not pay dividends on its common stock. Any
determination to pay cash dividends in the future would be at the discretion of
the board of directors and would be dependent upon the Company's results of
operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors
deemed relevant at that time by the board of directors. In addition, certain
covenants in the Company's credit facility with The Chase Manhattan Bank
substantially restrict payment of cash dividends.
26
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
During the three months ended December 31, 2000, the Company made the
following sales of unregistered securities:
Consideration
Received and
Description of
Underwriting or Other If Option, Warrant, or
Discounts to Market Convertible Security,
Price Afforded to Exemption from Terms of Exercise or
Date of Sale Title of Security Number Sold Purchasers Registration Claimed Conversion
- ------------ --------------------- --------------- ----------------------- ------------------------ -------------------------
11/15/00 Options to purchase 10,000 Options granted under 4(2) Exercisable one year
common stock the 1996 Basic Stock from grant date at an
Option Plan to exercise price of $1.75
certain non-employee per share.
directors - no other
consideration
received by Company
until exercise
- ------------ --------------------- --------------- ----------------------- ------------------------ -------------------------
12/4/00 Options to purchase 50,000 Options granted under 4(2) 20,000 shares are
common stock the 2000 Performance immediately exercisable
Equity Plan to and 30,000 shares
employee - no other become exercisable on
consideration 11/30/02 at an exercise
received by Company price of $1.50 per
until exercise share.
- ------------ --------------------- --------------- ----------------------- ------------------------ -------------------------
27
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected consolidated financial data as of and for each
of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2000 are derived from
the Company's consolidated financial statements, which statements have been
audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants. The selected
consolidated financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with
the Company's consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, and
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," each included elsewhere in this report. "Statement of Operations
Data" presented below includes reclassifications of certain revenue and expense
items which are not directly associated with operations. Such reclassifications
include interest income, interest expenses, foreign exchange effects and other
non-operating items.
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(amounts in thousands, except per share data)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Revenues $28,678 $22,494 $25,585 $33,784 $22,625
Film costs 23,058 19,152 21,015 30,888 16,850
Distribution and marketing costs - - - - 4,774
Selling, general and administrative 3,596 3,509 2,960 2,983 6,473
Income (loss) from operations 2,024 (168) 1,610 (87) (5,472)
Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative
effect of accounting changes 1,665 (837) 112 (1,989) (6,230)
Income tax provision (benefit) 3,131 (293) 53 (736) 137
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of
accounting changes (1,466) (544) 59 (1,253) (6,367)
Cumulative effect of accounting changes - - - - (14,123)
Net income (loss) (1,466) (544) 59 (1,253) (20,490)
Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share
before cumulative effect of accounting changes (0.41) (0.09) 0.01 (0.21) (0.78)
Cumulative effect - - - - (1.74)
Net income (loss) per share after cumulative effect (0.41) (0.09) 0.01 (0.21) (2.52)
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding (000's) 3,611 5,748 5,732 5,990 8,131
AS OF DECEMBER 31,
------------------
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(amounts in thousands)
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Film costs, net of accumulated amortization 28,358 29,741 29,003 28,364 13,393
Total assets 40,804 46,560 50,209 62,647 42,280
Total long-term liabilities 16,607 23,142 22,013 19,764 6,500
Total liabilities 28,612 34,999 38,588 49,348 32,375
Total shareholders' equity 12,192 11,561 11,621 13,299 9,905
- -------------------
(1) From January 1, 1989 to October 31, 1996, Overseas Private operated as
an S corporation under Subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code. During the
year ended December 31, 1996, the Company recorded a one-time, non-recurring
deferred federal income tax charge of $2,600,000 relating to the termination of
Overseas Private's S corporation status which occurred on the date of the
merger, October 31, 1996.
(2) During the year ended December 31, 2000, the Company recorded a
one-time, pre-tax non-cash charge of $15,582,000 ($14,123,000 after taxes).
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
General
The operations of Overseas Private were established in February 1980.
The Company was formed in December 1993 under the name "Entertainment/Media
Acquisition Corporation" for the purpose of acquiring an operating business in
the entertainment and media industry. The Company acquired Overseas Private
through a merger in October 1996 and the Company was the surviving corporation
in the merger. Immediately following the merger, the Company changed its name to
"Overseas Filmgroup, Inc." and succeeded to the operations of Overseas Private.
In January 2001, the Company changed its name to "First Look Media, Inc." in
order to reflect the broadening of its operations beyond foreign distribution of
independently produced feature films to additional areas such as theatrical and
video distribution in the United States and television commercial production and
Internet content development.
Today, the Company is principally involved in the acquisition and
worldwide license or sale of distribution rights to independently produced
motion pictures. The Company directly distributes certain motion pictures in the
domestic theatrical market under the name "First Look Pictures" and in the
domestic video market under the name "First Look Home Entertainment."
Relevant accounting provisions
In June 2000, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued Statement of Position
29
00-2 ("SOP 00-2"), which replaces SFAS No. 53. SOP 00-2 was adopted for the
Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2000. SOP 00-2 establishes new
accounting standards for producers or distributors of films, including changes
in revenue recognition and accounting for advertising, development and overhead
costs. Under the new standard, all exploitation costs such as advertising and
marketing costs for theatrical and television products will be expensed as
incurred, whereas under the previous standards, these costs were capitalized and
amortized over the products' lifetime revenues. In addition, the new standard
requires that development costs for abandoned projects be charged directly to
expense rather than being included in production overhead and reestablished as
film costs. The Company elected early adoption of SOP 00-2 and, as a result, in
the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2000, a cumulative charge for the change in
accounting principle of $15,582,000 ($14,123,000 net of income taxes) has been
reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year
ended December 31, 2000. Under SOP 00-2, the Company recorded additional
operating expense of $888,000 for the year ended December 31, 2000.
The Company amended filings on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods
ended June 30, 2000 and September 30, 2000 for transactions related to the
forgiveness of amounts due to related parties under the terms of the Securities
Purchase Agreement dated as of May 3, 2000, between the Company and Rosemary
Street Productions, LLC ("Rosemary Street") in order to account for these
transactions in compliance with the provisions of Accounting Principals Board
Opinion 26 and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 5-T. The $559,000 and
$125,000 for accrued interest and salaries, respectively, forgiven by the
principal stockholders of the Company in June 2000 were originally recognized as
other income and as a reduction of selling, general and administrative expense.
In the revised financial statements, these amounts were accounted for as a
capital contribution.
Results of operations
Year ended December 31, 2000 compared to year ended December 31, 1999
Revenues decreased by $11,159,000 (33.0%) to $22,625,000 for the year
ended December 31, 2000 compared to $33,784,000 for the year ended December 31,
1999. The decrease in revenues was primarily due to lower revenues from the
highest grossing films released in 2000 compared to 1999. For example, the six
highest income-producing films released during the year ended December 31, 2000
generated approximately $9,410,000 in revenue compared to approximately
$21,180,000 in revenue generated by the six highest income-producing films
released during the year ended December 31, 1999.
In accordance with new accounting standards established pursuant to SOP
00-2, distribution and marketing costs were expensed as incurred during the year
ended December 31, 2000. For the year ended December 31, 1999, distribution and
marketing costs were capitalized and amortized as film costs. Film costs,
distribution and marketing costs as a percentage of revenues increased to 95.6%
for the year ended December 31, 2000, compared to 91.4% for the year ended
December 31, 1999. The increase was in part due to application of the new
accounting standards, and to generally lower distribution fee rates (the
Company's gross margin) on films generating the greatest amount of revenue
during the year ended December 31, 2000 compared to the year ended December 31,
1999.
Selling, general and administrative expenses, net of amounts
capitalized to film costs, increased by $3,490,000 (117.0%) to $6,473,000 for
the year ended December 31, 2000, compared to $2,983,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1999. The largest increases were in the areas of bad debt expense
($1,617,000) and salary and payroll tax expense ($789,000). Bad debt expense
increased as a function of management's decision to write off certain accounts
deemed uncollectible. Salary expense increased due to the Company's expansion of
existing and new operational areas, including expansion related to the equity
investment by Rosemary Street, expansion of the Company's video and DVD
operations, creation of a television commercial production operation and
increased staffing of the First Look Pictures theatrical releasing operation.
Additionally, the Company capitalizes some of its overhead costs incurred in
connection with its production activities related to a motion picture by adding
30
the costs to the capitalized film costs of the motion picture. The increase in
selling, general and administrative expenses was partially the result of fewer
expenses being capitalized ($673,000 in 2000 compared to $1,100,000 in 1999),
due to the Company's reduced involvement in production related activities. Other
increases included:
o accounting expenses of $21,000;
o charitable contributions of $10,000;
o consulting fees of $97,000;
o insurance premiums of $132,000;
o legal fees of $222,000;
o office and computer supplies of $21,000;
o officers' fringe and employee benefits of $76,000;
o publicity expenses of $23,000;
o repairs expenses of $19,000;
o business and franchise taxes of $17,000;
o telephone expenses of $33,000; and
o travel and entertainment expenses of $61,000.
These increases were partially offset by decreases in contract labor of
$44,000 and miscellaneous expenses related to being a public company of $23,000.
Net other expense decreased by $1,144,000 (60.1%) to $758,000 for the
year ended December 31, 2000, compared to $1,902,000 for the year ended December
31, 1999. The decrease in net other expense was primarily due to the gain
reported on the Company's sale of shares of common stock of Yahoo!, Inc. of
$625,000, decreased interest expense of $448,000, an increase in interest income
of $20,000, and an increase in other miscellaneous revenues of $51,000.
As a result of the above, the Company had a loss before income taxes
and cumulative effect of accounting changes of $6,230,000 for the year ended
December 31, 2000, compared to a loss before income tax benefit and cumulative
effect of accounting changes of $1,989,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999.
The Company recorded a one-time charge for the cumulative effect of
accounting changes of $14,123,000, net of income tax benefit of $1,459,000 for
the year ended December 31, 2000.
As a result of the above, the Company had a net loss of $20,490,000 for
the year ended December 31, 2000 (reflecting foreign withholding taxes of
$131,000, and state taxes of $6,000), compared to net loss of $1,253,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1999 (reflecting an effective income tax benefit of
$736,000).
Year ended December 31, 1999 compared to year ended December 31, 1998
Revenues increased by $8,199,000 (32.0%) to $33,784,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1999, compared to $25,585,000 for the year ended December 31,
1998. The increase in revenues was due in part to more films generating in
31
excess of $1,000,000 each in revenue in 1999 as compared to 1998. The Company
licensed rights to eight motion pictures that each generated over $1,000,000 in
revenue during 1999 and which in the aggregate generated approximately
$23,947,000 in revenue, compared to only six films that each generated over
$1,000,000 in revenue during 1998 and which in the aggregate generated
approximately $16,472,000 in revenue.
Film costs as a percentage of revenues increased to 91.4% for the year
ended December 31, 1999, compared to 82.1% for the year ended December 31, 1998.
The increase was primarily due to lower gross margins on the titles released in
the year ended December 31, 1999 as compared to the year ended December 31,
1998, and a write-off of development costs of approximately $1,100,000 relating
to three films which, although the Company continues to actively attempt to
arrange for their production, have not been set for production within the
three-year guideline provided in SFAS 53.
Selling, general and administrative expenses, net of amounts
capitalized to film costs, increased by $23,000 (0.8%) to $2,983,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1999, compared to $2,960,000 for the year ended December
31, 1998. The Company capitalizes some of its overhead costs incurred in
connection with its acquisition of rights to a motion picture by adding the
costs to the capitalized film costs of the motion picture. The increase in
selling, general and administrative expenses, net of amounts capitalized to film
costs, was partially the result of fewer expenses being capitalized. The Company
capitalized expenses of $1,229,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998,
compared to $1,089,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999. Other increases
included:
o accounting expenses of $22,000;
o bad debt expenses of $129,000;
o consulting fees of $63,000;
o contract labor of $28,000; and
o legal fees of $29,000.
These increases were partially offset by decreases in selling, general
and administrative expenses from the prior year, including decreases in:
o equipment leases of $15,000;
o directors and officers insurance premiums of $19,000;
o the officer life insurance premiums of $27,000;
o employee benefits of $77,000;
o expenses related to being a publicly traded company of $20,000;
o publicity expenses of $47,000;
o reader and research expenses of $25,000;
o compensation costs of $102,000; and
o telephone and fax costs of $42,000.
Other expense increased by $404,000 (26.9%) to $1,902,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1999, compared to $1,498,000 for the year ended December 31,
1998. This increase was primarily due to decreased capitalized interest costs of
$136,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999, compared to $650,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1998. Interest costs and fees, before capitalization,
decreased by $139,000 to $2,155,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999,
compared to $2,294,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998, primarily as the
result of lower outstanding balances on various notes and loans payable to banks
and to two of the Company's principal stockholders, Robert B. Little and Ellen
Dinerman Little (together, the "Littles").
As a result of the above, the Company had a loss before income tax
benefit of $1,989,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999, compared to an
income before income taxes of $112,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998.
The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $736,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1999, reflecting a 37.0% effective tax rate, compared to a
tax provision of $53,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998.
As a result of the above, the Company had a net loss of $1,253,000 for
the year ended December 31, 1999, compared to net income of $59,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1998.
32
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company requires substantial capital for the acquisition of film
rights, the funding of distribution costs and expenses, the payment of ongoing
overhead costs and the repayment of debt. The principal sources of funds for the
Company's operations has been cash flow from operations, bank borrowings and
equity financings.
June 2000 Private Placement
In June 2000, the Company consummated a private placement with Rosemary
Street Productions, LLC ("Rosemary Street"), in which the Company sold to
Rosemary Street for an aggregate cash purchase price of $17,000,000:
o 5,097,413 shares of common stock;
o 904,971 shares of Series A preferred stock, each share of
which is convertible into two shares of common stock and
votes with the common stock on an as-converted basis; and
o five-year warrants to purchase up to 2,313,810 shares of
common stock at an exercise price of $3.40 per share.
As of December 31, 2000, Rosemary Street owned approximately 53.5% of the
Company's voting securities.
Chase Facility
Concurrently with the consummation of the June 2000 private placement
with Rosemary Street, the Company entered into a $40 million credit facility (of
which $33 million has been committed) with Chase and other commercial banks and
financial institutions. A portion of the proceeds from this new credit facility
were used to refinance outstanding loans and accrued interest under the
Company's previous credit facility with Coutts & Co. and Bankgesellschaft Berlin
A.G. The remaining proceeds will be available to finance the Company's
production, acquisition, distribution and exploitation of feature length motion
pictures, television programming, video product and rights and for working
capital and general corporate purposes, including the Company's expansion into
television commercial production.
Under the Chase facility, the Company borrows funds through loans
evidenced by promissory notes. The loans are made available through a revolving
line of credit which may be reduced, partially or in whole, at any time and is
to be fully paid on June 20, 2005. The Chase facility also provides for letters
of credit to be issued from time to time upon the Company's request.
The amounts drawn down under the Chase facility bear interest, as the
Company may select, at rates based on either LIBOR plus 2% or a rate per annum
equal to the greater of (a) the Prime Rate plus 1%, (b) the Base CD Rate plus 2%
and (c) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 1.5% (as these terms are defined
in the credit agreement). In addition to an annual management fee of $125,000,
the Company pays a commitment fee on the daily average unused portion of the
Chase facility at an annual rate of 0.5%. Upon entering the Chase facility, the
Company was required to pay a one-time fee of approximately $848,000. The Chase
facility also restricts the creation or incurrence of indebtedness of additional
securities. The Chase facility is collateralized by all tangible and intangible
assets and future revenues of the Company.
In May 2001, the Company entered into an amendment to the Chase
facility, pursuant to which the requisite lenders agreed, effective as of the
date of the amendment, to:
o permit the Company to obtain financing for one film from
another lender;
o increase the Company's overhead allowance from $5 million to
$7.25 million; and
o reduce the minimum level of Consolidated Net Worth (as defined
in the credit agreement) that the Company is required to
maintain from $28 million to $22 million.
As of December 31, 2000, the Company was not in compliance with the overhead and
net worth covenants of the credit agreement as in effect prior to the amendment.
Such non-compliance has been waived by the requisite lenders under the credit
agreement.
33
Other Loans
In addition to the amounts outstanding under the Chase facility, during
1998 the Company borrowed $2,000,000 from another lender, the proceeds of such
loan were used to acquire rights to a particular film. This subordinated note
bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 1.5% and is collateralized by amounts due
under distribution agreements from the specific film. The subordinated note
matures on May 29, 2001.
Note and Debt Contributions
Concurrently with the June 2000 private placement with Rosemary Street,
the Company entered into a note and debt contribution agreement with the
Littles. Pursuant to the agreement, the Littles forgave:
o $1,339,037 of aggregate outstanding principal amount and
$480,709 of accrued but unpaid interest on a note issued by
the Company to the Littles as part of the consideration
given relating to the merger of the Company with Overseas
Private in October 1996;
o $78,101 of accrued and unpaid interest on loans in the
aggregate principal amount of $400,000 ("P&A Loans") made by
the Littles to the Company in December 1997 and February
1998, which were used to provide a portion of the funds
required by the Company for the print and advertising costs
associated with the domestic theatrical release of Mrs.
Dalloway; and
o $125,131 of accrued salaries that the Company owed to them.
The Littles also contributed $130,000 in cash and 1,588,812 of their shares of
the Company's common stock to the Company's capital and the Company paid the
Littles $1,430,000 calculated as:
o $135,476 for various reimbursable expenses as provided in
their employment agreements with the Company;
o $130,000 of the remaining principal balance on the note
issued in connection with the Company's merger with Overseas
Private;
o $400,000 representing the aggregate principal amount owed by
the Company to the Littles under the P&A Loans;
o $564,524 of accrued salaries; and
o $200,000 representing the amount owed by the Company to the
Littles under a tax reimbursement agreement between the
Company and the Littles entered into in connection with the
Company's merger with Overseas Private.
Yahoo! Stock Sale
As of December 31, 2000, the Company had sold all 17,454 shares of
common stock of Yahoo!, Inc. that the Company received in July 1999 as part of a
share-for-share exchange with broadcast.com, which was subsequently acquired by
Yahoo!. On July 19, 2000, the Company sold 8,727 shares of Yahoo! common stock
for approximately $1,164,000 and on September 26, 2000, the Company sold the
remaining 8,727 shares of Yahoo! common stock for approximately $892,000.
Resources
At December 31, 2000, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of
$832,000, compared to cash and cash equivalents of $270,000 as of December 31,
1999. As of December 31, 2000, there was no restricted cash and the balance as
of December 31, 1999 was $88,000. Additionally, as of December 31, 2000, the
Company had deferred revenue relating to distribution commitments and guarantees
from sub-distributors of approximately $86,500.
34
The Company believes that its existing capital, funds from the Chase
facility, funds from its operations and other available sources of capital will
be sufficient to fund its operations for at least the next twelve months.
35
ITEM 7A. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is exposed to market risk related to changes in interest
rates. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments. Because very
few of the Company's revenues are denominated in foreign currency, the Company
does not believe there is a significant risk imposed on the Company due to the
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The table below provides
information about the Company's debt obligations, including principal cash flows
and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates:
Expected Maturity Date
----------------------
(in thousands)
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Thereafter
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----------
Liabilities
Variable Rate:
Chase Credit Facility $6,500
Average Interest Rate 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0% 8.0%
Subordinated Note Payable $ 616
Average Interest Rate 10.0%
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The report of independent accountants, consolidated financial
statements and notes to the Company's consolidated financial statements appear
in a separate section of this report (beginning on page F-1) following Part IV.
The following table sets forth selected unaudited quarterly data for each of the
years in the two years ended December 31, 2000:
2000
(amounts in thousands except for per share data)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues 6,049 4,411 4,767 7,398
Income (loss) from operations (20) (831) (596) (4,025)
Loss before cumulative effect of
accounting changes (558) (1,351) (165) (4,294)
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes (14,123) - - -
Net loss (14,681) (1,350) (165) (4,294)
Basic and diluted loss per share:
Loss before cumulative effect of
accounting changes (0.09) (0.21) (0.02) (0.44)
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes (2.24) - - -
Net Loss (2.33) (0.21) (0.02) (0.44)
1999
March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues 6,690 6,541 6,726 13,827
Income (loss) from operations 606 409 (242) (860)
Net income (loss) 100 (48) (444) (861)
Income (loss) per share:
Basic and diluted 0.02 (0.01) (0.07) (0.14)
36
The increase in loss from operations during the fourth quarter of 2000
compared to the previous three quarters was due to the expansion of the
Company's operations and increases in
o write offs of certain projects under development,
o marketing and distribution expenses in connection with
preparation for the upcoming film festivals in 2001,
o bad debt write-offs and
o legal and consulting fees relating to valuation of the
Company's film library and capital investment opportunities
other than Rosemary Street.
The lower net loss for the quarter ended September 30, 2000 reflected the
capital gain that the Company recognized on its sale of 17,454 shares of common
stock of Yahoo!, Inc. during the quarter.
The increase in loss from operations and net loss during the fourth
quarter of 1999 compared to the previous three quarters was due to increases in
write offs of certain projects under development and bad debt write-offs.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The following table sets forth information with respect to the current
directors and executive officers of the Company:
NAME AGE POSITION
- ---- --- --------
Christopher J. Cooney 40 Co-Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer
Robert B. Little 55 Co-Chairman of the Board and President
William F. Lischak 43 Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial
Officer, Secretary and Director
Jeffrey Cooney 43 Executive Vice President - Creative
Affairs and Director
Stephen K. Bannon 46 Director
Scot K. Vorse 40 Director
Barry R. Minsky 58 Director
Joseph Linehan 40 Director
Nicholas Bavaro 61 Director
Current Directors and Executive Officers
Christopher J. Cooney has served as the Company's co-chairman of the
board and the chief executive officer since June 2000. Since August 1999, Mr.
Cooney has served as president of Rosemary Street Productions LLC, a New
York-based entertainment holding company. Since 1986, Mr. Cooney has served in
various positions at EUE/Screen Gems, Ltd. ("EUE/Screen Gems"), a New York-based
television commercial facility and production house, including as head of
production from 1986 to 1988, as vice president in charge of all facilities from
1988 to 1992, and as vice president of physical production from 1992 to 1996. In
1996, Mr. Cooney led EUE/Screen Gems in the acquisition of DeLaurentis Studios.
Since 1996, Mr. Cooney has been responsible for overseeing all commercial and
daytime television production for the North Carolina operations of EUE/Screen
Gems. Mr. Cooney also holds an ownership interest in EUE/Screen Gems. In 1984,
Mr. Cooney formed Total Picture Company to produce concert films, commercials
and videos for record labels and musical instrument manufacturers. Prior to
that, Mr. Cooney was employed by Independent Artists as an assistant producer of
37
international television commercials. Mr. Cooney received his B.A. from Boston
University. Christopher J. Cooney is the brother of Jeffrey Cooney, the
Company's executive vice president of creative affairs, and a director of the
Company.
Robert B. Little has been president of the Company since June 2000 and
co-chairman of the board since the merger with Overseas Private in October 1996.
Mr. Little also served as the Company's co-chief executive officer from October
1996 to June 2000. Mr. Little co-founded Overseas Private in February 1980 and
served as chairman of the board of Overseas Private from February 1987 until
October 1996 and its chief executive officer from February 1990 until October
1996. Mr. Little was a founding member of the American Film Marketing
Association, the organization which established the American Film Market, and
served multiple terms on its board of directors. In 1993, Mr. Little served on
the City of Los Angeles Entertainment Industry Task Force, a task force composed
of industry leaders focused on maintaining and enhancing Los Angeles' reputation
as the entertainment capital of the world. Mr. Little is also a founding member
of The Archive Council, an industry support group for the University of
California at Los Angeles Archive Film Preservation Program, and a member of the
board of directors of the Antonio David Blanco Scholarship Fund, an endowment
fund that annually benefits deserving students in the UCLA Department of Film
and Television. Mr. Little was an executive producer of Titus, which was
nominated for an Academy Award(R) in 1999.
William F. Lischak has served as the Company's chief operating officer,
chief financial officer, secretary and a director since October 1996. Mr.
Lischak served as chief operating officer of Overseas Private from September
1990 until October 1996 and its chief financial officer from September 1988
until October 1996. Mr. Lischak, a certified public accountant, previously had
worked in public accounting, including from 1982 to 1988 with the accounting
firm of Laventhol & Horwath. Mr. Lischak has a masters degree in taxation and
has taught courses in the extension program at UCLA in accounting, finance and
taxation for motion pictures and television. Mr. Lischak attended New York
University's Tisch School of Arts and received a bachelor's degree in business
administration from New York University's Leonard N. Stern School of Business.
Jeffrey Cooney has served as the Company's executive vice
president-creative affairs and a director since June 2000. Since August 1999,
Mr. Cooney has served as creative director of Rosemary Street. Mr. Cooney also
holds an ownership interest in EUE/Screen Gems. In 1990, Mr. Cooney formed
Jeffrey Cooney Films and until August 1999 directed commercials for clients such
as Kodak, Mitsubishi, Procter & Gamble and General Mills. Mr. Cooney received a
B.A. in English from Holy Cross College. Jeffrey Cooney is the brother of
Christopher J. Cooney, the Company's co-chairman of the board and chief
executive officer.
Stephen K. Bannon has been a director of the Company since its
inception in December 1993. From October 1996 to June 2000, he served as vice
chairman of the Company's board of directors and chairman of its executive
committee. From December 1993 until October 1996, he served as the Company's
chairman of the board. From June 1991 through July 1998, Mr. Bannon served as
the chief executive officer of Bannon & Co., Inc., an investment banking firm
specializing in the entertainment, media and communications industries. In July
1998, Bannon & Co., Inc. was acquired by SG Cowen Securities Corporation, an
integrated, full service U.S. securities and investment banking firm. Mr. Bannon
served as managing director and co-head of SG Cowen Securities Corporation's
media and entertainment group from July 1998 until March 2000. In March 2000,
Mr. Bannon founded and is currently a managing partner of Jefferies Bannon Media
Partners L.L.C. As part of an investment banking assignment, from April 1994 to
December 1995, Mr. Bannon served as acting chief executive officer of SBV, a
division of Decisions Investment Corp., which operates the Biosphere 2 project
near Oracle, Arizona. Mr. Bannon is a registered principal with the NASD. Mr.
Bannon was an executive producer of Titus, which was nominated for an Academy
Award(R)in 1999.
Scot K. Vorse became a director of the Company in January 1995. From
January 1995 until October 1996, he served as the Company's treasurer and
secretary, and from January 1995 until November 1996, he served as the Company's
vice president. From June 1991 through July 1998, Mr. Vorse served as an
executive vice president and the chief financial officer of Bannon & Co., Inc.
After the acquisition of Bannon & Co., Inc. by SG Cowen Securities Corporation
in July 1998, Mr. Vorse served as managing director and co-head of SG Cowen
Securities Corporation's media and entertainment group until March 2000. Since
March 2000, Mr. Vorse has been managing his personal investments.
38
Barry R. Minsky has served as a director of the Company since June
2000. Since 1977, Mr. Minsky has served as president of Wharton Capital
Corporation and since 1996 as chief executive officer of Wharton Capital
Partners, Ltd., a New York-based investment banking firm which, along with its
partners, facilitates financing for public companies and institutional clients.
Mr. Minsky has assisted public and private corporations in merger and
acquisition activities, sourcing financing and developing financial strategies.
Mr. Minsky also has experience in music publishing, film libraries, motion
picture production and distribution. Mr. Minsky received a B.S. in economics and
graduated on the dean's list from the Wharton School, University of
Pennsylvania.
Joseph Linehan has served as a director of the Company since June
2000. Mr. Linehan has been employed in various capacities with The Union Labor
Life Insurance Co. since 1984. Since December 1999, Mr. Linehan has served as
vice president-private capital and vice president-securities. From May 1998 to
December 1999, Mr. Linehan served as second vice president-investments and from
February 1993 to May 1998, Mr. Linehan served as assistant vice
president-investments. Mr. Linehan received a B.A. and M.B.A. from the
University of Maryland.
Nicholas Bavaro has served as a director of the Company since June
2000. Mr. Bavaro has served as vice president and chief financial officer of
EUE/Screen Gems since 1983, when Columbia Pictures International ("Columbia")
sold its Screen Gems division. From 1961 to 1983, Mr. Bavaro served in various
positions at Columbia, including as an employee in the financial department from
1961 to 1967, as comptroller of the Screen Gems division from 1967 to 1973 and
as vice president and chief financial officer of that division from 1974 to
1983.
Board Of Directors
The board of directors is divided into three classes, each of which
serves for a term of three years, with only one class of directors being elected
in each year. The term of the first class of directors, consisting of William F.
Lischak, Joseph Linehan and Barry R. Minsky, will expire at the annual meeting
of stockholders in 2002. The term of the second class of directors, consisting
of Robert B. Little, Stephen K. Bannon and Christopher J. Cooney, will expire at
the annual meeting of stockholders in 2003. The term of the third class of
directors, consisting of Scot K. Vorse, Nicholas Bavaro and Jeffrey Cooney, will
expire at the annual meeting of stockholders in 2001. In each case, each
director serves from the date of his election until the end of his term and
until his successor is elected and qualifies. See "Voting Agreement" below for a
description of certain arrangements regarding the election of directors.
Committees
Executive Committee. Christopher J. Cooney, Robert B. Little, William
F. Lischak and Stephen K. Bannon currently serve on the executive committee,
with Mr. Cooney serving as chairman of such committee. During intervals between
the meetings of the board of directors, the executive committee exercises all
powers of the board of directors (except those powers specifically reserved by
Delaware law or the Company's Bylaws to the full board of directors) in the
management and direction of the business and conduct of the Company's affairs in
all cases in which specific directions have not been given by the board.
Compensation Committee. William F. Lischak, Joseph Linehan and Stephen
K. Bannon currently serve on the compensation committee, with Mr. Lischak
serving as chairman of such committee. The compensation committee administers
the Company's stock option plans to the extent contemplated thereby and reviews,
approves, and makes recommendations with respect to compensation of officers,
consultants and key employees. See "Executive Compensation-Stock Option Plans."
Audit Committee. The audit committee currently consists of Stephen K.
Bannon, Scot K. Vorse and Nicholas Bavaro, with Mr. Bavaro serving as chairman
of such committee. The functions of the Audit Committee are: to review and
39
approve the selection of, and all services performed by, the Company's
independent auditors; to meet and consult with and to receive reports from, the
Company's independent auditors and the Company's financial and accounting staff;
and to review and act with respect to the scope of audit procedures, accounting
practices and internal accounting and financial controls.
Voting Agreement
In June 2000, the Company, Rosemary Street, the Littles, MRCo., Inc.,
a member of Rosemary Street, Christopher J. Cooney and Jeffrey Cooney entered
into a voting agreement, which provides that:
o so long as Robert B. Little is employed as the Company's
president, or the Littles own no less than 5% of the
Company's issued and outstanding voting securities, the
Company will nominate and Rosemary Street will vote for
Robert B. Little to serve as a member of the Company's
board;
o so long as Christopher J. Cooney and Jeffrey Cooney own, in
the aggregate, directly or indirectly, no less than 5% of
the Company's issued and outstanding voting securities, the
Company will nominate and the Littles and other members of
Rosemary Street will vote for Christopher J. Cooney and
Jeffrey Cooney to serve as members of the Company's board;
and
o so long as MRCo. owns no less than 5% of the Company's
issued and outstanding voting securities, the Company will
nominate and the Littles and other members of Rosemary
Street will vote for Joseph Linehan to serve as a member of
the Company's board.
The voting agreement further provides that if the size of the board is
increased from nine members to eleven members prior to June 20, 2002, Rosemary
Street has the right to designate for election or appoint as directors the two
persons to fill the vacancies created by the increase. The Littles have agreed
to vote all of their shares of the Company's voting securities for the election
of Rosemary's two nominees in this situation.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,
requires the Company's directors and executive officers and persons who own more
than 10% of the Company's common stock to file with the SEC initial reports of
ownership and reports of changes in ownership of common stock and other equity
securities of the Company. The Company's executive officers, directors and 10%
stockholders are required by SEC regulations to furnish the Company with copies
of Section 16(a) forms they file. To the Company's knowledge, based solely upon
a review of the Forms 3 and 4 and amendments thereto furnished to the Company
during its most recent fiscal year, the Forms 5 furnished to the Company with
respect to its most recent fiscal year, and written representations of the
Company's directors, executive officers and 10% stockholders, during the year
ended December 31, 2000, all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to the
Company's executive officers, directors and 10% stockholders were complied with,
except that Christopher Cooney, Jeffrey Cooney and Barry Minsky filed Form 4s
late.
40
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth the total compensation paid or accrued
during 2000, 1999 and 1998 to Christopher J. Cooney, the Company's current chief
executive officer, Ellen Dinerman Little and Robert B. Little, the Company's
co-chief executive officers until June 2000 and to William F. Lischak, the
Company's only other executive officer who earned more than $100,000 during the
year ended December 31, 2000.
Long Term
Compensation
Annual Compensation Awards
------------------------------------------ ------------------
Other
Annual Securities All Other
Compen- Underlying Compen-
Name and Salary Bonus sation Options/SARS sation
Principal Position Year ($) ($) ($) (#) ($)
- --------------------------------- ---------- -------------- ------------ ----------- ------------------ ------------
Christopher J. Cooney 2000 100,000(1) 0 0 0 0
Co-chairman of the board and 1999 0 0 0 0 0
chief executive officer 1998 0 0 0 0 0
Robert B. Little 2000 215,865(2) 37,500(3) 36,371(4) 250,000 38,715(5)
Co-chairman of the board and 1999 125,000(6) 25,000(7) 11,852(8) 0 34,791(9)
president 1998 125,000(10) 25,000(7) 26,985(11) 0 48,101(12)
Ellen Dinerman Little 2000 60,096(13) 12,500(14) 0 250,000 30,494(15)
Former co-chairman of the 1999 125,000(16) 25,000(7) 0 0 22,638(17)
board, co-chief executive 1998 125,000(18) 25,000(7) 17,203(19) 0 19,642(20)
officer and president
William F. Lischak 2000 212,980 150,000 0(21) 75,000 12,286(22)
Chief operating officer, chief 1999 200,000 50,000 0(21) 10,000 12,528(23)
financial officer and secretary 1998 193,209 50,000 0(21) 0 10,677(24)
- ----------------------------------
(1) Represents salary earned by Mr. Cooney commencing in June 2000 when he
became co-chairman of the board and chief executive officer in
connection with the closing of the private placement with Rosemary
Street.
(2) Represents salary earned by Mr. Little as co-chairman of the board and
co-chief executive officer of the Company through June 2000. In
connection with the closing of the private placement with Rosemary
Street in June 2000, the Company amended Mr. Little's existing
employment agreement to provide for him to serve as co-chairman of the
board and president.
(3) Represents bonus earned by Mr. Little pursuant to his employment
agreement, $25,000 of which has been deferred.
(4) Represents $11,852 of auto expense allowance, $3,750 in business
management fees and $20,769 of general expense allowance paid pursuant
to Mr. Little's employment agreement.
(5) Represents $3,115 in contributions made by the Company on behalf of
Mr. Little pursuant to the Company's 401(k) plan, $32,966 in life
insurance premiums and $2,634 in disability insurance premiums paid by
the Company for the benefit of Mr. Little.
41
(6) Represents salary earned by Mr. Little pursuant to his employment
agreement, the payment of which was made or forgiven in June 2000.
(7) Represents bonus of $25,000, payment of which was made or forgiven in
June 2000.
(8) Represents $10,987 for automobile lease payments and $865 in
automobile expenses.
(9) Represents $32,480 in life insurance premiums paid or accrued by the
Company for the benefit of Mr. Little and $2,311 in disability
insurance premiums paid by the Company for the benefit of Mr. Little.
(10) Represents salary earned by Mr. Little pursuant to his employment
agreement, payment of $68,066 of which was made or forgiven in June
2000.
(11) Represents $11,985 for automobile lease payments, $10,700 in business
management and accounting fees paid by the Company on behalf of Mr.
Little and $4,300 in business management and accounting fees to which
Mr. Little was entitled to reimbursement, payment of which was made in
June 2000.
(12) Represents $2,266 in contributions made by the Company on behalf of Mr.
Little pursuant to the Company's 401(k) Plan, $34,258 in life insurance
premiums paid or accrued by the Company for the benefit of Mr. Little,
$2,123 in disability insurance premiums paid by the Company for the
benefit of Mr. Little and $9,454 in tax preparation fees for 1996 for
which Mr. Little was entitled to reimbursement, payment of which was
made in June 2000.
(13) Represents salary earned by Ms. Little as co-chairman of the board,
co-chief executive officer and president of the Company through June
2000. In connection with the June 2000 private placement, the Company
terminated Ms. Little's employment.
(14) Represents bonus earned by Ms. Little through June 2000.
(15) Represents $27,860 in life insurance premiums and $2,634 in disability
insurance premiums paid by the Company for the benefit of Ms. Little.
(16) Represents salary earned by Ms. Little pursuant to her employment
agreement, the payment of which was made or forgiven in June 2000.
(17) Represents $20,225 in life insurance premiums paid or accrued by the
Company for the benefit of Ms. Little and $2,413 in disability
insurance premiums paid by the Company for the benefit of Ms. Little.
(18) Represents salary earned by Ms. Little pursuant to her employment
agreement, payment of $68,063 of which was made or forgiven in June
2000.
(19) Represents $10,700 of business management and accounting fees paid by
the Company on behalf of Ms. Little, $2,203 in automobile expenses and
$4,300 of business management and accounting fees to which Ms. Little
was entitled to reimbursement, payment of which was made in June 2000.
(20) Represents $2,267 in contributions made by the Company on behalf of
Ms. Little pursuant to the Company's 401(k) Plan, $15,100 in life
insurance premiums paid or accrued by the Company for the benefit of
Ms. Little and $2,275 in disability insurance premiums paid by the
Company for the benefit of Ms. Little.
(21) Perquisites with respect to the executive officer did not exceed the
lesser of $50,000 or 10% of the executive officer's salary and bonus.
42
(22) Represents $4,260 in contributions made by the Company on behalf of
Mr. Lischak pursuant to the Company's 401(k) plan, $6,139 in life
insurance premiums and $1,887 in disability insurance premiums paid by
the Company for the benefit of Mr. Lischak.
(23) Represents $3,569 in contributions made on behalf of Mr. Lischak
pursuant to the Company's 401(k) Plan, $7,295 in life insurance
premiums for which Mr. Lischak is entitled to reimbursement and $1,664
in disability insurance premiums paid by the Company for the benefit
of Mr. Lischak.
(24) Represents $3,077 in contributions made by the Company on behalf of
Mr. Lischak pursuant to our 401(k) Plan, $5,135 in life insurance
premiums and $2,465 in disability insurance premiums paid by the
Company for the benefit of Mr. Lischak.
43
The following table summarizes the number of options granted to the
executive officers named above during the year ended December 31, 2000, and the
percentage that such options relate to the stock options granted to all
employees during such fiscal year:
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
Individual Grants
-----------------
% of Total Market
Options Granted Exercise Price on
Options to Employees in Price Date of Expiration
Name Granted(#) Fiscal Year ($/Share) Grant ($) Date
- ---- ---------- --------------- --------- ---------- ----------
Christopher J. Cooney
Co-chairman of the board and chief
executive officer 0 0% -- -- --
Robert B. Little
Co-chairman of the board and
president 250,000(1) 40% $3.40 $2.00 6/19/05
Ellen Dinerman Little
Former co-chairman of the board,
co-chief executive officer and
president 250,000(1) 40% $3.40 $2.00 6/19/05
William F. Lischak
Chief operating officer, chief
financial officer and secretary 75,000(2) 12% $3.40 $2.00 6/19/05
- -----------------------
(1) Represents immediately exercisable options to purchase 250,000 shares
of common stock pursuant to the Company's Amended and Restated 1996
Special Stock Option Plan and Agreement.
(2) Represents options to purchase 75,000 shares of common stock pursuant
to the Company's 1996 Basic Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Rights
Plan, as to which 16,676 options were exercisable as of December 31,
2000 and 2,083 options become exercisable on the last day of each of
the next 28 consecutive months thereafter.
44
The following table summarizes the number of exercisable and
unexercisable options held by the executive officers named above at December 31,
2000, and their value at that date if such options were in-the-money:
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL
YEAR AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
Number of Securities Value of Unexercised
Shares Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money Options at
Acquired Options at December 31, December 31, 2000
on Value 2000 Exercisable/ Exercisable/
Exercise Realized Unexercisable Unexercisable
Name (#) ($) (#) ($)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christopher J. Cooney 0 0 0/0 0/0
Co-chairman of the board
and chief executive officer
Robert B. Little 0 0 250,000/0 0/0
Co-chairman of the board
and president
Ellen Dinerman Little 0 0 250,000/0 0/0
Former co-chairman of the
board, co-chief executive
officer and president
William F. Lischak 0 0 16,676/58,324 0/0
Chief operating officer,
chief financial officer
and secretary
Director Compensation
Pursuant to the automatic option grant program under the Company's 1996
Basic Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan, each individual serving
as a non-employee board member on October 31, 1996 was granted a non-qualified
option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock. In addition, each member of the
board who is not employed by the Company receives an automatic grant of a
non-qualified option to purchase 5,000 shares of the common stock (i) upon
becoming a board member, whether through election at a meeting of the Company's
stockholders or through appointment by the board of directors and (ii) on the
date of each annual meeting of stockholders, if such individual is to continue
to serve as a board member after such meeting; provided such individual has
served as a non-employee member of the board of directors for at least six
months. Each such automatic option grant is, among other things, exercisable at
the fair market value of the common stock on the date of the automatic grant and
is generally exercisable after completion of one year of service to the board of
directors measured from the automatic grant date. In addition, the Company
reimburses all directors for travel and related expenses incurred in connection
with their activities on behalf of the Company. Directors of the Company are not
otherwise compensated for serving on the board.
45
Compensation Committee Interlocks And Insider Participation
The Company's compensation committee was established in October 1996 and
currently consists of William Lischak, Joseph Linehan and Stephen K. Bannon,
with William F. Lischak serving as chairman of such committee. Mr. Lischak has
served as chief operating officer, chief financial officer, secretary and a
director of the Company since October 1996. Mr. Linehan has served as a director
of the Company since June 2000. Mr. Bannon was chairman of the board of
directors of the Company during 1996 until consummation of the merger with
Overseas Private and served as vice chairman of the board of directors and
chairman of the executive committee from October 1996 to June 2000. The
compensation committee currently administers both of the Company's stock option
plans to the extent contemplated thereby.
Indemnification
The Company has entered into indemnification agreements with its
directors (including those who are also executive officers) providing for
indemnification by the Company, including in circumstances in which
indemnification is otherwise discretionary under Delaware law. These agreements
constitute binding agreements between the Company and each of the parties
thereto, thus preventing the Company from modifying its indemnification policy
in a way that is adverse to any person who is a party to such an agreement.
Compensation Arrangements For Current Executive Officers
Christopher J. Cooney
In June 2000, the Company entered into an employment agreement with
Christopher J. Cooney, which provides for Mr. Cooney to serve as the Company's
co-chairman of the board and the chief executive officer for a one-year term
ending in June 2001. Mr. Cooney receives a base salary of $200,000 and will
receive an annual $25,000 bonus if the Company's pre-tax profits exceed $500,000
in any year during the term. Mr. Cooney also will be entitled to an additional
bonus, if any, as may be established by the board at the beginning of the
employment term based on the Company achieving certain profit targets. The
agreement contains a non-compete clause whereby Mr. Cooney agreed not to compete
with the Company for the duration of the agreement.
Robert B. Little
In June 2000, the Company entered into an amended and restated
employment agreement with Robert B. Little, which provides for Mr. Little to
serve as the Company's co-chairman of the board and the president for a
three-year term ending in June 2003. Mr. Little receives a base salary of
$300,000 and a guaranteed bonus of $50,000, which will be increased by $25,000
on a cumulative basis for each year of the employment term in which the
Company's pre-tax profits exceed $500,000. Mr. Little also will be entitled to
an additional bonus, if any, as may be established by the board at the beginning
of each year of the employment term based on the Company achieving certain
profit targets. If the Company achieves these targets, Mr. Little's employment
agreement will be automatically renewed on the same terms for an additional
two-year term. Regardless of whether the Company achieves the targets, the
Company may give Mr. Little written notice at least six months prior to the
expiration of the initial employment term that the Company elects to extend the
initial term for an additional two years. If the initial term is not renewed,
Mr. Little will be entitled to receive $400,000 in cash, payable in six equal
monthly installments of $66,666, with the first payment to be made within 30
days after termination of the initial term. The agreement contains a non-compete
clause whereby Mr. Little agreed not to compete with the Company for the
duration of the agreement and for one year after its termination.
46
William F. Lischak
In June 2000, the Company entered into an amended and restated
employment agreement with William F. Lischak, which provides for Mr. Lischak to
serve as the Company's chief operating officer and chief financial officer for a
three-year term ending in June 2003. Mr. Lischak receives a base salary of
$225,000 and a guaranteed bonus of $50,000, which will be increased by $15,000
on a cumulative basis for each year of the employment term in which the
Company's pre-tax profits exceed $500,000. Mr. Lischak also will be entitled to
an additional bonus, if any, as may be established by the board at the beginning
of each year of the employment term based on the Company achieving certain
profit targets. If the Company achieves these targets, Mr. Lischak's employment
agreement will be automatically renewed on the same terms for an additional
two-year term. Regardless of whether the Company achieves the targets, the
Company may give Mr. Lischak written notice at least six months prior to the
expiration of the initial employment term that the Company elects to extend the
initial term for an additional two years. If the initial term is not renewed,
Mr. Lischak will be entitled to receive $300,000 in cash, payable in six equal
monthly installments of $50,000, with the first payment to be made within 30
days after termination of the initial term. The agreement contains a non-compete
clause whereby Mr. Lischak agreed not to compete with the Company for the
duration of the agreement and for one year after its termination.
In connection with the June 2000 private placement, the Company granted
Mr. Lischak an option under the Company's 1996 Basic Stock Option Plan to
purchase 75,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $3.40 per share.
As of April 12, 2001, 22,925 options were exercisable. 2,083 options will become
exercisable on the last day of each of the next 25 consecutive months
thereafter. Once exercisable, the options will remain exercisable until June
2005.
Jeffrey Cooney
In June 2000, the Company entered into an employment agreement with
Jeffrey Cooney, which provides for Mr. Cooney to serve as the Company's
executive vice president-creative affairs for a three-year term ending in June
2003. Mr. Cooney receives a base salary of $60,000 and will receive a $25,000
bonus for each year of the employment term in which the Company's pre-tax
profits exceed $500,000. Mr. Cooney also will be entitled to an additional
bonus, if any, as may be established by the board at the beginning of each year
of the employment term based on the Company achieving certain profit targets. If
the Company achieves these targets, Mr. Cooney's employment agreement will be
automatically renewed on the same terms for an additional two-year term.
Regardless of whether the Company achieves the targets, the Company may give Mr.
Cooney written notice at least six months prior to the expiration of the initial
employment term that the Company elects to extend the initial term for an
additional two years. If the initial term is not renewed, Mr. Cooney will be
entitled to receive $100,000 in cash, payable in six equal monthly installments
of $16,666.67, with the first payment to be made within 30 days after
termination of the initial term. The agreement contains a non-compete clause
whereby Mr. Cooney agreed not to compete with the Company for the duration of
the agreement and for one year after its termination.
Stock Option Plans
Amended and Restated 1996 Special Stock Option Plan and Agreement
The Amended and Restated 1996 Special Stock Option Plan and Agreement
primarily provides equity incentives to each of Robert B. Little and Ellen
Dinerman Little. Under the Special Option Plan, on October 31, 1996, each of Ms.
Little and Mr. Little was granted two non-qualified options to purchase a total
of 1,100,000 shares of common stock:
o one option to purchase 537,500 shares of common stock at an
exercise price of $5.00 per share, exercisable on October
31, 1996 for 100,000 shares with the balance vesting in five
equal annual installments beginning on October 30, 1997; and
47
o one option to purchase 562,500 shares of common stock at an
exercise price of $8.50 per share, vesting in five equal
annual installments beginning on October 30, 1997.
All 2,200,000 shares of common stock initially reserved for issuance
under the Special Option Plan were subject to the options granted to the
Littles.
In June 2000, the Company amended the Special Option Plan. Pursuant to
this amendment, the Company cancelled all of the options outstanding under the
Special Option Plan and granted each of Ms. Little and Mr. Little an option to
purchase 250,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $3.40 per share.
The options are immediately exercisable and expire in June 2005.
1996 Basic Stock Option Plan
In October 1996, the Company's stockholders approved the 1996 Basic
Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan under which a total of 550,000
shares of common stock are available for grant to the Company's regular
full-time employees, non-employee members of the board of directors, independent
consultants and other persons who provide services to the Company on a regular
or substantial basis. Awards consist of stock options (both non-qualified
options and options intended to qualify as incentive stock options under Section
422 of the Internal Revenue Code) and stock appreciation rights. As of December
31, 2000, options to purchase an aggregate of 279,500 shares of common stock
were outstanding under the Basic Option Plan, with exercise prices ranging from
$1.75 to $5.25 per share.
2000 Performance Equity Plan
In November 2000, the Company's stockholders approved the 2000
Performance Equity Plan, under which a total of 1,000,000 shares of common stock
are available for grant to the Company's key employees, officers, directors and
consultants. Awards consist of stock options (both non-qualified options and
options intended to qualify as incentive stock options under Section 422 of the
Internal Revenue Code), restricted stock awards, deferred stock awards, stock
appreciation rights and other stock-based awards, as described in the 2000 plan.
As of December 31, 2000, options to purchase an aggregate of 50,000 shares of
common stock were outstanding under the 2000 plan at an exercise price of $1.50
per share.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information as of April 12, 2001
with respect to the common stock ownership of:
o those persons or groups known to beneficially own more than
5% of the Company's voting securities;
o each director;
o each executive officer whose compensation exceeded $100,000
in 2000; and
o all current directors and executive officers as a group.
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under the
Exchange Act. The information concerning the stockholders is based upon
information furnished to the Company by these stockholders. Except as otherwise
indicated, all of the shares of common stock are owned of record and
beneficially and the persons identified have sole voting and investment power
with respect to the shares. Except as otherwise indicated in the table below,
the business address of each of the persons listed is care of First Look Media,
Inc., 8800 Sunset Boulevard, Third Floor, Los Angeles, California 90069.
48
Amount and Percent
Nature of of Class
Name of Beneficial Owner Beneficial of Voting
Ownership Securities
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------- ------------
Christopher J. Cooney..................... 7,830,430(1) 59.2%
c/o Rosemary Street Productions, LLC
222 East 44th Street
New York, New York 10017
Robert B. Little.......................... 1,864,406(2) 18.1%
William F. Lischak........................ 288,234(3) 2.9%
Jeffrey Cooney............................ 7,830,430(1) 59.2%
c/o Rosemary Street Productions, LLC
222 East 44th Street
New York, New York 10017
Stephen K. Bannon......................... 141,324(4) 1.4%
c/o Jeffries Bannon
Media Partners LLC
11100 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, California 90025
Scot K. Vorse............................. 146,323(5) 1.4%
1863 Mango Way
Los Angeles, California 90049
Barry R. Minsky........................... 90,735(6) 9.8%
c/o Wharton Capital Partners, Ltd.
545 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10022
Joseph Linehan............................ 5,000(7) *
c/o The Union Labor Life Insurance Co.
111 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20001
Nicholas Bavaro........................... 25,000(8) *
c/o EUE/Screen Gems, Ltd.
222 East 44th Street
New York, New York 10017
Rosemary Street Productions, LLC..........
222 East 44th Street 7,830,430(9) 59.2%
New York, New York 10017
Dolphin Offshore Partners, L.P............ 1,262,500(10) 12.5%
c/o Dolphin Management
129 East 17th Street
New York, New York 10003
49
Amount and Percent
Nature of of Class
Name of Beneficial Owner Beneficial of Voting
Ownership Securities
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------- ------------
Wharton Capital Partners, Ltd............. 690,735 7.0%
545 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10022
Ellen Dinerman Little 1,864,406(2) 18.1%
c/o Savitsky & Co.
1901 Avenue of the Stars
Suite 1450
Los Angeles, California 90067
All current executive officers and
directors as a group (9 persons)......... 11,291,952(11) 79.9%
- -----------------------
* Less than 1%
(1) Represents shares of common stock beneficially owned by Rosemary
Street, of which Christopher J. Cooney is one of the two designated
managers and president and of which Jeffrey Cooney is one of the two
designated managers and creative director.
(2) Represents (i) 1,364,406 shares of common stock held by the Littles as
community property in a revocable living trust, (ii) 250,000 shares of
common stock issuable upon exercise of immediately exercisable options
and (iii) 250,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable options granted to such person's spouse which
generally only may be exercised by such person's spouse. Such person
disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares subject to his or her
spouse's options.
(3) Includes 35,008 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable options and 4,166 shares of common stock
issuable upon exercise of options exercisable on or before June 30,
2001. Excludes 45,826 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
options, 2,083 of which become exercisable in each month commencing in
July 2001.
(4) Includes 20,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable options. Excludes 5,000 shares of common stock
issuable upon exercise of options that become exercisable in November
2001.
(5) Represents (i) 20,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable options and (ii) 126,323 shares of common stock
contributed by Mr. Vorse to a revocable living trust for the benefit of
Mr. Vorse's spouse. Excludes 5,000 shares of common stock issuable upon
exercise of options that become exercisable in November 2001.
(6) Represents (i) 690,735 shares of common stock owned by Wharton Capital
Partners Ltd., a New York corporation of which Mr. Minsky holds a 50%
interest, (ii) 295,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable warrants, 95,000 of which are held by Mr.
Minsky's spouse and (iii) 5,000 shares of common stock issuable upon
exercise of options that become exercisable in June 2001.
50
(7) Represents 5,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
options that become exercisable in June 2001.
(8) Represents (i) 20,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
immediately exercisable warrants and (ii) 5,000 shares of common stock
issuable upon exercise of options that become exercisable in June 2001.
(9) Includes (i) 1,809,942 shares of common stock issuable on conversion of
immediately convertible Series A preferred stock and (ii) 1,613,810
shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of immediately
exercisable warrants.
(10) Includes 328,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of
currently exercisable warrants. Information provided herein was
obtained from a Schedule 13D/A, dated December 31, 1998 filed by
Dolphin Offshore Partners, L.P. with the SEC.
(11) Includes shares referred to as being included in notes 1 through 8.
Excludes shares referred to in such notes as being excluded.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
On October 31, 1996, as part of the consideration to them in the merger
with Overseas Private, the Company issued to the Littles a $2,000,000 secured
promissory note, bearing interest at the rate of 9% per annum, with principal
and interest originally payable in monthly installments of $41,517 over a
five-year period ending October 1, 2001. In connection with the June 2000
private placement, the Littles forgave the outstanding principal amount and
interest accrued under the note.
The Littles had agreed to defer all payments under the note until
outstanding borrowings under the operating facility portion of the Company's
previous credit facility with Coutts & Co. was reduced to at least $5,000,000.
However, a later amendment to the credit facility with Coutts & Co. permitted
the Company to pay to the Littles an amount equal to their aggregate weekly
salary without interest on a weekly basis towards repayment of the note so long
as the Littles deferred the payments until the deferral lapse date. Pursuant to
the note and debt contribution agreement entered into in connection with the
June 2000 private placement, the Company paid an amount equal to $564,524 in
accrued salaries owed to the Littles by the Company and the Littles forgave an
amount equal to $125,131 of accrued salaries. The Company also repaid the
Littles $135,476 in expenses owed to them under their respective employment
agreements.
In connection with the merger with Overseas Private, the Company
entered into a tax reimbursement agreement with the Littles and Mr. Lischak. In
June 2000, pursuant to the note and debt contribution agreement, the Company
paid the Littles $200,000, representing the entire amount owed by the Company to
them under the provisions of the tax reimbursement agreement.
In December 1997 and February 1998, the Littles loaned the Company an
aggregate of $400,000 in order to provide a portion of the funds required by the
Company for the print and advertising costs associated with the domestic
theatrical release by the Company of Mrs. Dalloway. Pursuant to the note and
debt contribution agreement, the Company repaid the aggregate principal amount
of this loan to the Littles and the Littles forgave $78,101 of accrued and
unpaid interest on the loan.
Until June 2000, Ellen Dinerman Little was employed as the Company's
co-chairman of the board, co-chief executive officer and president. In June
2000, the Company's existing employment agreement with Ms. Little was terminated
and the Company entered into a "first look" agreement with The Little Film
Company and Ms. Little. The agreement provides for a three-year term ending in
51
June 2003. Pursuant to the "first look" agreement, the Little Film Company
receives:
o an annual fee of $100,000;
o a discretionary revolving development fund of $100,000 for
The Little Film Company's use in the option/acquisition of
literary properties, engagement of writers and other
customary development costs; and
o customary overhead, including office space, staff, telephone
and reasonable travel costs.
The Little Film Company also will be compensated on a project-by-
project basis. The Company will have an exclusive "first look" on any project
that The Little Film Company owns or controls or any project that it has the
right to acquire or may wish to acquire for development or production. The
Little Film Company will furnish the Company with the services of Ms. Little in
connection with the development and possible production of theatrical motion
pictures based upon accepted artist submissions meeting certain criteria.
In October 2000, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with
Wharton Capital Partners Ltd. Barry R. Minsky, a director of the Company, is the
chief executive officer and a 50% stockholder of Wharton. Under the agreement,
Wharton received a one-time fee of $100,000 and is entitled to receive a monthly
fee of $4,166 for 24 months. If Wharton introduces the Company to a financing
source and the Company consummates any public or private equity and/or debt
financing with the source during the term of the consulting agreement or during
the two-year period following the expiration of the agreement, then the Company
also will pay Wharton an amount equal to (i) 5% of all funds received by the
Company from such public or private equity financing and (ii) 3% of all funds
received by the Company from such public or private debt financing.
Additionally, upon completion of an equity-based financing, the Company will
issue to Wharton warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 5% of the
common stock or common stock equivalents issued in the financing at an exercise
price equal to 120% of the five-day average closing bid price prior to the
closing of such financing. The warrants will be exercisable on a cashless basis
and will have registration rights.
52
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
(a)(1) INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page(s) in
Form 10-K
----------
Report of Independent Accountants F-1
Consolidated Financial Statements:
Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 2000
and 1999 F-2
Consolidated Statements of Operations - Years Ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-3
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
Years Ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - Years
Ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-6
(a)(2) INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SCHEDULES
The schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting
regulations of the Commission are included in the respective financial
statements or notes thereto or are not required under the related instructions
or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.
(a)(3) EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K, dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on
November 12, 1996.
3.2 Bylaws, as amended on June 20, 2000. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Amended Current
Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
3.3 Certificate of Designations for Series A Preferred Stock.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company's
Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on
June 29, 2000.
53
3.4 Amendment to the Company's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation. Filed herewith.
4.1 Form of Common Stock Certificate. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
4.2 Form of Warrant Certificate. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form
S-1, Registration No. 33-83624.
4.3 Warrant Agreement between Continental Stock Transfer & Trust
Company and the Company. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form
S-1, Registration No. 33-83624.
4.4 Form of Warrant issued in the Company's bridge financing.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No.
33-83624.
4.5 Warrant, dated October 31, 1996, for Jefferson Capital
Group, Ltd. to purchase shares of Common Stock of the
Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated October 25,
1996, filed with the SEC on November 12, 1996.
4.6 Form of Warrant dated June 20, 2000. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Company's Amended Current
Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.1 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and Ellen Dinerman Little. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
10.2 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and Robert B. Little. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
10.3 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and William F. Lischak. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
10.4 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and Stephen K. Bannon. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
10.5 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and Scot K. Vorse. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
54
10.6 Indemnity Agreement, dated September 3, 1998, between the
Company and Gary Stein. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.7 to the Company's Current Report on Form 10-K, dated
December 31, 1998, filed with the SEC on April 15, 1999.
10.7 Indemnity Agreement, dated October 31, 1996, between the
Company and Alessandro Fracassi. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated October 25, 1996, filed with the SEC on November 12,
1996.
10.8 1996 Basic Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
1996.
10.9 Lease Agreement dated April 21, 1987, as amended.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 of the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
1996.
10.10 Amendment, dated April 1, 1997 to Lease Agreement, dated
April 21, 1987. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31
of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 1997.
10.11* Movie and Motion Picture Programming Agreement, dated July
19, 1999, between broadcast.com inc. and the Company.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30,
1999.
10.12 Securities Purchase Agreement, dated May 3, 2000, between
the Company and Rosemary Street Productions, LLC ("Rosemary
Street"). Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to the
Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with
the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.13 Assignment and Assumption Agreement the Company and Rosemary
Street. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to the
Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with
the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.14 Amended and Restated 1996 Special Stock Option Plan and
Agreement among Robert Little, Ellen Little and the Company.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to the Company's
Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on
June 29, 2000.
10.15 Stock Option Agreement between the Company and William
Lischak. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to the
Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with
the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.16 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between Robert
Little and the Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.39 to the Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A,
filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.17 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between William
Lischak and the Company. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.40 to the Company's Amended Current Report on
Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
- -------------------------------
*Confidential treatment has been granted for portions of such exhibit.
55
10.18 Employment Agreement between Christopher Cooney and the
Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to the
Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with
the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.19 Employment Agreement between Jeffrey Cooney and the Company.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.42 to the Company's
Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on
June 29, 2000.
10.20 First Look Agreement between The Little Film Company, Inc.
and the Company. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.43
to the Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed
with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.21 Note and Debt Contribution Agreement among Robert Little and
Ellen Little and the Company. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.44 to the Company's Amended Current Report on
Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.22 Form of Management Letter between each of Robert Little and
Ellen Little and the Company. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.45 to the Company's Amended Current Report on
Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.23 Voting Agreement among the Company, Rosemary Street, Robert
Little, Ellen Little, MRCo., Inc., Christopher Cooney and
Jeffrey Cooney. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.46
to the Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed
with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.24 Form of Credit, Security, Guaranty and Pledge Agreement,
dated as of June 20, 2000, among the Company, as Borrower,
the Guarantors named therein and the Lenders named therein,
with The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent, and
The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Issuing Bank (without schedules
and exhibits). Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.47 to
the Company's Amended Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed
with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.25 Copyright Security Agreement, dated as of June 20, 2000
(without schedules and exhibits). Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.48 to the Company's Amended Current Report on
Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on June 29, 2000.
10.26 Consulting Agreement, dated October 1, 2000, between the
Company and Wharton Capital Partners, Ltd. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 5 to the Schedule 13D filed by Wharton
with the SEC on November 28, 2000.
10.27 2000 Performance Equity Plan. Filed herewith.
21 Subsidiaries of the Registrant. Filed herewith.
23 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Filed herewith.
56
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Dated: May 16, 2001 FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher J. Cooney
--------------------------
Christopher J. Cooney
Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors
and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
--------- ----- ----
/s/ Christopher J. Cooney Co-Chairman of the Board May 16, 2001
- ------------------------- of Directors and Chief
Christopher J. Cooney Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Robert B. Little Co-Chairman of the Board of May 16, 2001
- -------------------- Directors and President
Robert B. Little
/s/ William F. Lischak Chief Operating Officer, May 16, 2001
- ---------------------- Chief Financial Officer,
William F. Lischak Secretary and Director
(Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
/s/ Jeffrey Cooney Executive Vice President - May 16, 2001
------------------ Creative Affairs and Director
Jeffrey Cooney
/s/ Stephen K. Bannon Director May 16, 2001
---------------------
Stephen K. Bannon
Director May 16, 2001
-----------------
Scot K. Vorse
/s/ Barry R. Minsky Director May 16, 2001
---------------------
Barry R. Minsky
/s/ Joseph Linehan Director May 16, 2001
------------------
Joseph Linehan
/s/ Nicholas Bavaro Director May 16, 2001
---------------------
Nicholas Bavaro
57
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and
Shareholders of First Look Media, Inc.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.):
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index
appearing under Item 14(a)(1) on page 53 present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of First Look Media, Inc. (formerly known as
Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.) and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2000 and 1999,
and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three
years ended December 31, 2000 in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these financial statements in accordance with auditing standards
generally accepted in the United States of America, which require that we plan
and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
- -------------------------------
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Los Angeles, California
May 16, 2001
F-1
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Year Ended December 31,
2000 1999
-----------------------
(in thousands)
ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 832 $ 270
Restricted cash - 88
Accounts receivable, net of allowance
for doubtful accounts of $1,100,000 26,583 30,089
Related party receivable - 149
Investment available for sale - 2,908
Film costs, net of accumulated amortization 13,393 28,364
Other assets 1,472 779
-----------------------
Total assets $ 42,280 $ 62,647
=======================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 1,411 $ 1,147
Accrued interest payable 174 273
Deferred revenue 87 919
Payable to producers 23,587 22,462
Notes payable 7,116 19,764
Payable to related parties - 1,335
Note payable to shareholders - 1,989
Deferred income taxes - 1,459
-----------------------
Total liabilities 32,375 49,348
-----------------------
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $.001 par value, 10,000,000
and 2,000,000 shares authorized at
December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively;
904,971 and 0 shares issued and
outstanding at December 31, 2000 and
1999, respectively (Liquidation
preference of $3,846,271) 1 -
Common stock, $.001 par value, 50,000,000 and
25,000,000 shares authorized at December 31,
2000 and 1999, respectively; 9,848,906 and
6,340,305 shares issued at December 31, 2000
and 1999, respectively; 9,803,906 and 6,295,305
shares outstanding at December 31, 2000 and 1999,
respectively 10 6
Additional paid-in capital 30,675 12,107
Accumulated deficit (20,694) (204)
Accumulated other comprehensive income - 1,477
Treasury stock at cost, 45,000 shares (87) (87)
---------------------
Total shareholders' equity 9,905 13,299
---------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 42,280 $ 62,647
=====================
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-2
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Year Ended December 31
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
(in thousands except per share amounts)
Revenues $ 22,625 $ 33,784 $ 25,585
Expenses:
Film costs 16,850 30,888 21,015
Distribution and marketing 4,774 -- --
Selling, general and administrative 6,473 2,983 2,960
------ ------ -----
Total expenses 28,097 33,871 23,975
------- ------- ------
(Loss) income from operations (5,472) (87) 1,610
------- ------- ------
Other income (expense):
Interest income 27 7 27
Interest expense (1,571) (2,019) (1,644)
Other income 786 110 119
------- ------- ------
Total other expense (758) (1,902) (1,498)
------- ------- ------
(Loss) income before income taxes
and cumulative effect
of accounting changes (6,230) (1,989) 112
Income tax provision (benefit) 137 (736) 53
------- ------- ------
(Loss) income before cumulative
effect of accounting changes (6,367) (1,253) 59
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes (net of income taxes) (14,123) - -
------- ------- ------
Net (loss) income $(20,490) $ (1,253) $ 59
======== ======== ======
Basic and diluted (loss) income per
share:
(Loss) income before cumulative
effect of accounting changes $ (0.78) $ (0.21) $ 0.01
Cumulative effect (1.74) - -
------- ------- ------
Net (loss) income $ (2.52) $ (0.21) $ 0.01
======== ======== ========
Weighted average number of common
shares outstanding 8,131 5,990 5,732
======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
F-3
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
Cash flows from operating activities: (in thousands)
Net (loss) income $(20,490) $ (1,253) $ 59
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash
(used in) provided by operating activities
Cumulative effect of accounting changes 15,582 - -
Film costs 16,850 14,340 21,014
Additions to film costs (2,865) (13,700) (20,277)
Payments to producers (13,472) 13,282 4,727
Equity based charge - 24 -
Capital gains and other non-cash income (625) - -
Change in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 3,506 (10,364) (5,308)
Related party receivables 149 - 132
Other assets (693) (145) 136
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (485) 87 728
Deferred income taxes (1,459) (874) (169)
Deferred revenue (832) 786 (668)
------- ------ -------
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (4,833) 2,183 374
------- ------ -------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Sale of marketable securities 2,056 - -
------- ------ -------
Net cash provided by investing activities 2,056 - -
------- ------ -------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Issuance of equity instruments, net of expenses 16,420 - -
Investment by significant shareholder 130 - -
Net pay down under credit facility (11,554) (1,960) (3,129)
Net (pay down) borrowings of subordinated note payable (1,095) (289) 2,000
Net (pay down) issuance of note payable to shareholders (650) (273) 101
Decrease in restricted cash position 88 71 13
------- ------ -------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 3,339 (2,451) (1,015)
------- ------ -------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 562 (268) (641)
Cash, cash equivalents at beginning of period 270 538 1,179
------- ------ -------
Cash, cash equivalents at end of period $ 832 $ 270 $ 538
======== ======== =======
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash
paid during the period for:
Interest $ 1,875 $ 2,199 $ 1,763
======== ======== ========
Income taxes $ 6 $ 22 $ 12
======== ======== ========
Foreign withholding taxes $ 131 $ 196 $ 117
======== ======== ========
Non-cash financing activities:
Contribution of capital by significant shareholder $ 2,023 $ - $ -
======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements
F-4
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands)
Accumulated Total
Additional Accumulated Other Share-
Preferred Stock Common Stock Paid-in (Deficit) Comprehensive Treasury holders'
Number Amount Number Amount Capital Earnings Income Stock Equity
------ ----- ------ ------ ------- --------- ------------ ------- ---------
Balance at December 31, 1997 - $ - 5,778 $ 6 $ 10,652 $ 990 $ - $ (87) $ 11,561
Net income - - - - - 59 - - 59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1998 - - 5,778 6 10,652 1,049 - (87) 11,620
Issuance of common stock - - 563 - 1,431 - - - 1,431
Equity based charge - - - - 24 - - - 24
Comprehensive income:
Unrealized holding gain in
investments available for
sale - - - - - - 1,477 - 1,477
Net loss - - - - - (1,253) - - (1,253)
-----------
Total comprehensive income 224
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1999 - - 6,341 6 12,107 (204) 1,477 (87) 13,299
Issuance of common stock,
preferred stock and
warrants 905 1 5,097 5 16,414 - - - 16,420
Retirement of common stock - - (1,589) (1) 1 - - - 0
Forgiveness of notes payable,
accrued expenses and
contribution of capital - - - - 2,153 - - - 2,153
Comprehensive income:
Reversal of unrealized
holding gain upon
sale of investment
available for sale - - - - - - (1,477) - (1,477)
Net loss - - - - - (20,490) - - (20,490)
-----------
Total comprehensive income (21,967)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 2000 905 $ 1 9,849 $ 10 $ 30,675 $ (20,694) $ - $ (87) $ 9,905
====================================================================================================
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements
F-5
FIRST LOOK MEDIA, INC.
(formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS:
First Look Media, Inc. (formerly known as Overseas Filmgroup, Inc.) ("Company")
is principally involved in the acquisition and worldwide license or sale of
distribution rights to independently produced motion pictures. Certain motion
pictures are directly distributed by the Company in the domestic theatrical
market under the name "First Look Pictures", and in the domestic video market
under the name "First Look Home Entertainment". As stated in Note 12, subsequent
to December 31, 2000, the Company has expanded its operations to include the
production of television commercials.
As stated in Note 3, in June 2000, the Company entered into a Securities
Purchase Agreement with Rosemary Street Productions, LLC ("Rosemary Street")
under which Rosemary Street purchased from the Company certain equity
instruments for cash consideration of $17 million.
NOTE 2 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements of the Company include the financial
position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company and its wholly
owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have
been eliminated.
Revenues
Revenues from nonrefundable guarantees payable by sub-distributors are
recognized when the film becomes available for release and certain other
conditions are met in accordance with Statement of Position 00-2 "Accounting by
Producers or Distributors of Films" ("SOP 00-2"). Amounts received in advance of
the film being available are recorded as deferred revenue. Revenues from direct
theatrical distribution of films are recognized on the dates of exhibition.
Revenues from home video market are recognized, net of a reserve for returns,
upon availability of product to retailers.
Film Costs and Amortization
The Company accounts for film costs in accordance with SOP 00-2. Film costs
include the direct costs of acquiring and producing motion picture product.
Capitalized costs, which include interest, are amortized using the individual
film forecast method whereby expense is recognized in the proportion that
current year revenues for each film bear to management's estimate of ultimate
revenues. Film costs are stated at the lower of net unamortized cost or net
realizable value.
In June 2000, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued SOP 00-2, which replaces SFAS
No. 53. SOP 00-2 was adopted for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1,
2000. SOP 00-2 establishes new accounting standards for producers or
distributors of films, including changes in revenue recognition and accounting
for advertising, development and overhead costs. Under the new standard, all
exploitation costs such as advertising and marketing costs for theatrical and
television products will be expensed as incurred, whereas under the previous
standards, these costs were capitalized and amortized over the products'
lifetime revenues. In addition, the new standard requires that development costs
for abandoned projects be charged directly to expense rather than being included
in production overhead and reestablished as film costs. The Company elected
early adoption of SOP 00-2 and, as a result, in the fiscal quarter ended June
30, 2000, a cumulative charge for the
F-6
change in accounting principle of $15,582,000 ($14,123,000 net of income taxes)
has been reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for
the year ended December 31, 2000. Under SOP 00-2, the Company recorded
additional operating expense of $888,000 for the year ended December 31, 2000.
Payables to Producers
The Company accounts for participations due to producers in accordance with SOP
00-2. Management's estimate of ultimate participations is accrued as an expense
using the individual film forecast method whereby expense is recognized in the
proportion that current year revenues for each film bear to management's
estimate of ultimate revenues. In the year ending December 31, 2001, management
expects to make payments of approximately $14,000,000 to settle payable to
producer liabilities outstanding at December 31, 2000.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid instruments purchased with a maturity of
less than three months to be cash equivalents. The carrying value of the
Company's cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value due to their
short-term nature.
Fixed Assets
Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is
provided over the estimated useful lives of assets, which range from 5 to 7
years using the straight line method. Leasehold improvements are amortized over
the shorter of the useful lives of assets or the term of the lease.
Long-Lived Assets
The Company reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be
recoverable. An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted
future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual
disposition is less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered
impaired, the amount of the impairment loss recognized is measured as the amount
by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset,
fair value being determined based upon discounted cash flows or appraised
values, depending on the nature of the asset. The Company has identified no such
impairment losses.
Financial Instruments
The recorded value of the Company's cash and cash equivalents, accounts
receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities and payable to producers
approximate their fair value due to the relative short maturities of these
instruments. The fair value of notes payable approximates the recorded value due
to the stated interest rate on such instruments.
Segment Reporting
The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No.
131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information" for
the year ended December 31, 2000. SFAS No. 131 establishes standards for the way
companies report information about operating segments in interim and annual
financial statements. It also establishes standards for related disclosures
about products and services, geographic areas and major customers. The Company's
management has determined that the Company operated within one discrete
reportable business segment for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and
1998.
F-7
Income Taxes
The Company records income taxes in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No.
109, "Accounting for Income Taxes". The standard requires, among other
provisions, an asset and liability approach to recognize deferred tax
liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of temporary
differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and tax basis of
assets and liabilities. Valuation allowances are provided if, based upon the
weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the
deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Basic and Diluted Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic and diluted net income(loss) per share is computed by dividing the net
income(loss) applicable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of
shares of common stock and common equivalent shares outstanding. Common
equivalent shares related to stock options, warrants and convertible preferred
stock have been excluded from the computation because their effect is
anti-dilutive.
The following table sets forth common stock equivalents (potential common stock)
that are not included in the diluted net income(loss) per share calculation
above because their effect would be anti-dilutive for the periods indicated:
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
Weighted average common stock
equivalents:
Convertible preferred stock 904,971 0 0
Stock options 1,546,377 2,310,722 2,244,274
Warrants 6,118,319 4,562,500 4,562,500
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based employee compensation arrangements in
accordance with the provisions of Accounting Principles Board ("APB") No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and FASB Interpretation ("FIN") No.
28 "Accounting for Stock Appreciation Rights and Other Variable Stock Option
Award Plans an Interpretation of APB Opinions No. 15 and 25" and complies with
the disclosure requirements of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." Under APB No. 25,
compensation cost, if any, is recognized over the respective vesting period
based on the difference, if any, on the date of grant, between the fair value of
the Company's common stock and the grant price. The Company accounts for stock
issued to non-employees in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123 and
EITF 96-18, "Accounting for Equity Instruments that are issued to other than
Employees for Acquiring, or in Conjunction with Selling, Goods or Services." In
March 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued FIN No. 44,
"Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation." FIN No. 44
provides guidance for issues arising in applying APB No. 25. FIN No. 44 applies
specifically to new awards, exchanges of awards in a business combination,
modification to outstanding awards, and changes in grantee status that occur on
or after July 1, 2000, except for the provisions related to repricing and the
definition of an employee which apply to awards issued after December 15, 1998.
The Company's financial statements have been prepared under the guidance
provided by FIN No. 44.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk
consist primarily of cash and accounts receivable. The Company places its cash
with a financial institution and, at times, such amounts may be in excess of the
FDIC insurance limits. Concentration of credit risk associated with accounts
receivable is limited due to the large number of customers, as well as their
dispersion across geographic areas. The Company performs credit evaluations of
its customers and generally does not require collateral. As of December 31,
2000, two customers had outstanding balances of 10% or more ($3.5 million and
$3.2 million, respectively) of the Company's total accounts receivable.
F-8
Comprehensive Income
The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income". SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting comprehensive income
and its components in financial statements. Comprehensive income, as defined,
includes all changes in equity during a period from non-owner sources.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets
and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amount of
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
New Accounting Guidance
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No.
133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." In June
1999, the FASB delayed the effective date of the standard, which will now be
effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning January 1, 2001. If the
Company enters into derivative transactions in the future, SFAS No. 133 will
require the Company to record all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair
value. Changes in derivative fair values will either be recognized in earnings
as offsets to the changes in fair value of related hedged assets, or deferred
and recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income until the
hedged transactions occur and are recognized in earnings. The ineffective
portion of a hedging derivative's change in fair value will be immediately
recognized in earnings. The impact of SFAS No. 133 on the Company's financial
statements will depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of the
Company's future hedging activities, the types of hedging instruments used and
the effectiveness of such instruments. Management does not expect the impact of
adopting SFAS No. 133 on the Company's financial statements to be significant.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to amounts reported in prior periods to
conform with the current year presentation.
NOTE 3 - AGREEMENT WITH ROSEMARY STREET PRODUCTIONS, LLC:
In June 2000, the Company consummated a Securities Purchase Agreement with
Rosemary Street in which the Company sold to Rosemary Street for an aggregate
cash price of $17,000,000 (i) 5,097,413 shares of common stock, (ii) 904,971
shares of Series A convertible preferred stock and (iii) five-year warrants to
purchase up to 2,313,810 shares of common stock for an exercise price of $3.40
per share. Expenses associated with this issuance of stock and warrants totaled
$580,000 through December 31, 2000. As of December 31, 2000, Rosemary Street
owned approximately 53.5% of the Company's voting securities.
In accordance with the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement with Rosemary
Street, Robert B. Little and Ellen Dinerman Little (collectively, "the
Littles"), former co-chairs of the Board of Directors, co-chief executive
officers and significant stockholders of the Company, forgave outstanding notes
payable and other payables of $2,023,000 and contributed to capital $130,000 in
cash and 1,588,812 shares of common stock. Pursuant to the agreement, the
Company paid the Littles $1,430,000 to settle remaining outstanding notes
payable and other payables.
NOTE 4 - MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
In July 1999, the Company and broadcast.com entered into an agreement whereby
broadcast.com was granted the right to exhibit, via the Internet, certain films
F-9
owned by the Company. Additionally, broadcast.com received 562,527 shares of the
Company's common stock in consideration for 11,302 shares in broadcast.com.
In July 1999, the Company received 17,454 shares of common stock of Yahoo!, Inc.
("Yahoo!"), reflecting a 2 for 1 stock split, in exchange for its shares of
broadcast.com, following Yahoo!'s acquisition of broadcast.com
The Company accounted for its investment in Yahoo! under the provisions of SFAS
No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities". The
investment in Yahoo! was classified as an available-for-sale security and was
carried on the balance sheet at fair value.
During 2000, the Company sold all its shares of Yahoo! common stock for
approximately $2,056,000.
NOTE 5 - FILM COSTS:
Film costs consist of the following:
December 31,
2000 1999
---- ----
(in thousands)
Film costs in release net of accumulated
amortization $ 11,702 $ 26,433
Films costs not yet available for release 1,691 1,931
-------- --------
$ 13,393 $ 28,364
======== ========
Interest costs capitalized to films were $186,000, $303,000 and $649,000 during
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively. Based on the
Company's estimates of projected gross revenues as of December 31, 2000,
approximately 28% and 81% of unamortized film costs applicable to films in
release, are expected to be amortized during the next year and next three years,
respectively.
NOTE 6 - NOTES PAYABLE:
Notes payable consist of the following:
December 31,
2000 1999
---- ----
(in thousands)
Chase Credit Facility $ 6,500 $ -
Coutts/Bankgesellschaft Credit Facility - 18,053
Subordinated Note Payable 616 1,711
------- ------
$ 7,116 $ 19,764
======= ========
Concurrently with the consummation of the Securities Purchase Agreement with
Rosemary Street (Note 3), the Company entered into a five year $40 million
revolving credit facility (of which $33 million has been committed) with The
Chase Manhattan Bank and other commercial banks and financial institutions (the
"Chase Credit Facility"). A portion of the proceeds from this new credit
facility were used to refinance outstanding loans and accrued interest under the
Company's previous credit facility with Coutts & Co. and Bankgesellschaft Berlin
A.G. (the "Coutts/Bankgesellschaft Credit Facility"). The remaining proceeds
will be available to finance the Company's production, acquisition, distribution
and exploitation of motion pictures, and for working capital and general
corporate purposes, including the Company's planned expansion into television
commercial production (Note 12).
F-10
The amounts drawn down under the Chase Credit Facility bear interest, as the
Company may select, at rates based on either LIBOR plus 2% or a rate per annum
equal to the greater of (a) the Prime Rate plus 1%, (b) the Base CD Rate plus 2%
and (c) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 1.5% (as these terms are defined
in the Chase Credit Facility Agreement). In addition to an annual management fee
of $125,000, the Company pays a commitment fee on the daily average unused
portion of the Chase Credit Facility at an annual rate of 0.5%. Upon entering
the Chase Credit Facility, the Company was required to pay a one-time fee of
approximately $848,000. The Chase Credit Facility Agreement also restricts the
creation or incurrence of indebtedness and the issuance of additional
securities. The Chase Credit Facility is collateralized by all tangible and
intangible assets, and future revenues of the Company.
In May 2001, the Company entered into an amendment to the Chase Credit Facility,
pursuant to which the requisite lenders agreed, effective as of the date of the
amendment, to:
o permit the Company to obtain financing for one film from
another lender;
o increase the Company's overhead allowance from $5 million to
$7.25 million; and
o reduce the minimum level of Consolidated Net Worth (as defined
in the credit agreement) that the Company is required to
maintain from $28 million to $22 million.
As of December 31, 2000, the Company was not in compliance with the overhead and
net worth covenants of the credit agreement as in effect prior to the amendment.
Such non-compliance has been waived by the requisite lenders under the credit
agreement.
In addition to the amounts outstanding under the Chase Credit Facility
Agreement, during 1998 the Company borrowed $2,000,000 from another lender, the
proceeds of such loan were used to acquire rights to a particular film. This
subordinated note bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 1.5% and is
collateralized by amounts due under distribution agreements from the specific
film. The subordinated note matures on May 29, 2001.
NOTE 7 - INCOME TAXES:
The components of the provision for income taxes on earnings before income taxes
are as follows:
Years ended December 31,
------------------------
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
(in thousands)
Current
State $ 6 $ - $ 53
Foreign withholding 131 - 117
------- -------- -------
- - 170
------- -------- -------
Deferred
State - (60) (49)
Federal - (676) (68)
------- -------- -------
(736) (117)
------- -------- -------
$ 137 $ (736) $ 53
======== ========= =======
The provision for income taxes differs from the amount of income tax determined
by applying the applicable U.S. statutory income tax rates to income (loss)
before taxes and cumulative effect of accounting changes, as a result of the
following differences:
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
Federal statutory rate (34.0)% (34.0)% 34.0%
State taxes, net of federal
benefit and income not
subject to tax (3.0)% (3.0)% 3.0%
Deferred tax asset valuation
allowance 37.0% - -
Non-deductible portion of
officers' life insurance - - 8.0%
Other 2.2% - 2.0%
------- ------- ------
2.2% (37.0)% 47.0%
======= ======= ======
The deferred taxes relate primarily to differences arising from the amortization
of film costs for book and tax purposes and the benefits associated with tax
loss and foreign withholding tax credit carryforwards. The foreign withholding
taxes are substantially recouped from the producers' share of revenue.
F-11
The Company has provided a valuation allowance for the full amount of its net
deferred tax assets since realization of any future benefit from deductible
temporary differences and net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards cannot
be sufficiently assured at December 31, 2000.
At December 31, 2000, the Company had net operating losses for both federal and
state income tax purposes of approximately $9,957,000 and $9,906,000,
respectively, which expire at various dates between 2014 and 2015, respectively.
The net operating losses can be carried forward to offset future taxable income,
if any. Utilization of the carryforwards may be subject to utilization
limitations which may inhibit the Company's ability to use carryforwards in the
future.
NOTE 8 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common Stock
During 2000, the Company increased the number of authorized shares of common
stock, $.001 par value, from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000 shares.
Preferred Stock
During 2000, the Company increased the number of authorized shares of preferred
stock, $.001 par value, from 2,000,000 to 10,000,000 shares.
Series A Preferred Stock
In accordance with the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement with Rosemary
Street (Note 3), the Company issued 904,971 shares of Series A preferred stock.
The Series A preferred stock has the following characteristics:
Voting - Each share of Series A preferred stock is entitled to the number of
votes equal to the number of shares of common stock into which the preferred
stock is then convertible. Holders of the Series A preferred stock vote
together with common stockholders as one class.
Dividends - The holders of Series A preferred stock are not entitled to any
dividends.
Liquidation Preference - In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding
up of the affairs of the Company, the holders of the then outstanding Series A
preferred stock shall receive for each share an amount equal to the liquidation
value, payable in preference and priority to any payments made to the holders of
the then outstanding common stock. The exercise of the liquidation preference is
not beyond the control of the Company's management.
Conversion - Each share of Series A preferred stock, at the option of the
holder, is convertible at any time into two shares of common stock. Conversion
is automatic if by October 15, 2001, the convertible preferred stock is still
outstanding. At December 31, 2000, 1,809,942 shares of the Company's common
stock have been reserved for conversion.
Stock Option Plans
In October 1996, the Company's stockholders approved the 1996 Basic Stock Option
and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan ("1996 Plan"), under which incentive and
non-qualified stock options and stock appreciation rights may be granted to
certain employees, directors, independent consultants and certain other persons
who provide services to the Company to purchase up to a maximum of 550,000
shares of common stock. The 1996 Plan calls for annual grants to non-employee
directors of 5,000 shares at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of
the common stock on the date of grant, which is the date of the Annual
Stockholders meeting. These options are exercisable one year after the date of
grant and expire on the earlier of ten years from the date of grant or three
years from the date on which the director ceases to be a director of the
Company.
F-12
As part of the Securities Purchase Agreement with Rosemary Street (Note 3), the
Company cancelled all outstanding stock options granted to the Littles. Under
the terms of the Company's 1996 Special Stock Option Plan, the Littles held
options to purchase up to 2.2 million shares of common stock at exercise prices
ranging from $5.00 to $8.50 per share. These stock options were issued in 1996
and vested over a five-year period. The Company subsequently granted the Littles
fully vested stock options to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock at an
exercise price of $3.40 per share.
In November 2000, the Company's stockholders approved the 2000 Performance
Equity Plan ("2000 Plan"), under which a total of 1,000,000 shares of common
stock are available for grant to the Company's key employees, directors and
independent consultants. Awards consist of stock options, restricted stock
awards, deferred stock awards, stock appreciation rights and other stock-based
awards, as described in the 2000 plan.
An aggregate of 1,550,000 shares of common stock were reserved for grant under
the 1996 Plan and the 2000 Plan of which 1,220,000 shares were available for
future grant at December 31, 2000.
The following table summarizes stock option transactions during the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998:
Weighted Average
Number of Shares Price Per Share
----------------- ----------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 2,240,000 $ 6.73
1998:
Granted 20,000 $ 1.88
Balance, December 31, 1998 2,260,000 $ 6.69
1999:
Granted 120,000 $ 2.40
Balance, December 31, 1999 2,380,000 $ 6.48
2000:
Cancelled 2,200,000 $ 6.78
Granted 650,000 $ 3.20
Balance, December 31, 2000 830,000 $ 3.22
Exercisable at December 31, 2000 716,000 $ 3.31
The following summarizes prices and terms of options outstanding at December 31,
2000:
Stock Option Outstanding
------------------------
Weighted Average Number Exercisable
Number Outstanding Remaining at December 31,
Exercise Price at December 31, 2000 Contractual Life 2000
- -------------- -------------------- ---------------- -----------------
$ 1.50 50,000 10 yrs 20,000
$ 1.75 10,000 10 yrs 0
$ 1.88 20,000 5.25 yrs 20,000
$ 2.25 20,000 5.75 yrs 20,000
$ 2.38 35,000 6.75 yrs 20,000
$ 2.44 100,000 8 yrs 100,000
$ 3.40 575,000 4.5 yrs 516,000
$ 5.25 20,000 4.25 yrs 20,000
-------- --------
830,000 5.44 yrs 716,000
======== ========
F-13
The Company applies APB No. 25 and related interpretations to account for stock
options granted to employees and directors. Had compensation cost been
recognized pursuant to the fair value approach of SFAS No. 123, the Company's
pro forma net loss and net loss per share applicable to common stockholders
would have been as follows:
2000 1999 1998
--------- -------- ---------
(in thousands)
Net loss before cumulative effect of
accounting changes:
As reported $(6,367) $(1,253) $ 59
SFAS 123 pro forma (6,700) (1,670) (276)
Net loss:
As reported (20,490) (1,253) 59
SFAS 123 pro forma (20,823) (1,670) (276)
Basic and diluted net loss per share:
As reported
Net loss before cumulative effect
of accounting changes (0.78) (0.21) 0.01
Net loss (2.52) (0.21) 0.01
SFAS 123 pro forma
Net loss before cumulative effect
of accounting changes (0.82) (0.28) (0.05)
Net loss (2.56) (0.28) (0.05)
The fair value of each stock option granted has been estimated on the date of
grant using the Black Scholes option-pricing model with the following
weighted-average assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate 6.10%
Expected life (in years) 4 years
Dividend yield 0%
Expected volatility 50%
Warrants
In accordance with the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement with Rosemary
Street (Note 3), the Company granted Rosemary Street warrants to purchase
2,313,810 shares of common stock. The Company also granted warrants to purchase
600,000 shares of common stock to individuals as compensation for services
rendered in connection with closing of the Securities Purchase Agreement. The
Company also granted warrants to purchase 75,000 shares of common stock to an
individual in consideration of his consent to the assignment by Rosemary Street
to the Company of his first look agreement. These warrants have an exercise
price of $3.40 per share, are fully vested, expire in June 2005 and remain
unexercised at December 31, 2000.
In addition to the warrants issued pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement
with Rosemary Street, at December 31, 2000, warrants to purchase 4,500,000 and
75,000 shares of common stock, issued in 1995 and 1996, at an exercise price of
$5.00 per share remained unexercised. These warrants are fully vested and expire
in February 2002 and October 2003, respectively.
F-14
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
Through June 2000, Ellen Dinerman Little was employed by the Company as its
co-chairman of the board, co-chief executive officer and president. In June
2000, the Company and Ms. Little terminated Ms. Little's existing employment
agreement and the Company entered into a first look agreement with The Little
Film Company, Inc. and Ms. Little. The agreement provides for a three-year term
ending in June 2003. Pursuant to the first look agreement, The Little Film
Company receives (i) an annual fee of $100,000; (ii) a discretionary revolving
development fund of $100,000 for The Little Film Company's use in the
option/acquisition of literary properties, engagement of writers and other
customary development costs; and (iii) customary overhead, including office
space, staff, telephone and reasonable travel costs. The Little Film Company
also will be compensated on a project-by-project basis. The Company will have an
exclusive "first look" on any project that The Little Film Company owns or
controls or any project that it has the right to acquire or may wish to acquire
for development or production. The Little Film Company will furnish the Company
with the services of Ms. Little in connection with the development and possible
production of theatrical motion pictures based upon accepted artist submissions
meeting certain criteria.
In October 2000, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Wharton
Capital Partners Ltd. ("Wharton"). Barry Minsky, a director of the Company, is
the chief executive officer and a 50% shareholder of Wharton. Under the
agreement, Wharton received a one-time fee of $100,000, and is entitled to
receive a monthly fee of $4,166 for 24 months starting in November 2000.
According to the agreement, if Wharton introduces the Company to a financing
source and the Company consummates any public or private equity and/or debt
financing with the source during the term of the consulting agreement or during
the two-year period following the expiration of the agreement, then the Company
also will pay Wharton an amount equal to (i) 5% of all funds received by the
Company from such public or private equity financing and (ii) 3% of all funds
received by the Company from such public or private debt financing.
Additionally, upon completion of an equity-based financing, the Company will
issue to Wharton warrants to purchase shares of the Company's common stock equal
to 5% of the common stock or common stock equivalents issued in the financing at
an exercise price equal to 120% of the five-day average closing bid price prior
to the closing of such financing. The warrants will be exercisable on a cashless
basis and will have registration rights.
NOTE 10 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
As of December 31, 2000, the Company was committed to pay a minimum guarantee of
approximately $281,000 contingent upon delivery of a film to the Company.
The Company leases office space and office equipment under various operating
leases, which expire between 2001 and 2003. Total rental expense under these
leases for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 amounted to
$255,000, $257,000, and $277,000 respectively. Minimum annual rental payments
under non-cancelable leases are as follows:
2001 $259,000
2002 196,000
2003 7,000
F-15
NOTE 11 - FOREIGN SALES AND SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS:
The Company's foreign revenues are summarized as follows:
Years Ended December 31,
2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ----
(in thousands)
Western Europe $ 9,289 $14,282 $ 9,723
Asia 1,999 1,701 1,298
Latin America 1,139 1,610 1,316
Eastern Europe 806 469 673
Other 1,775 4,775 4,125
------- ------- -------
$15,008 $22,837 $17,135
======= ======= =======
Customers representing 10% or more of the Company's revenues accounted for
$3,014,000 (one customer) for the year ended December 31, 2000, $3,500,000 (one
customer) for the year ended December 31, 1999 and, $5,000,000 (one customer)
for the year ended December 31, 1998.
NOTE 12 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:
Since December 31, 2000, the Company has established a television
commercial division to produce television commercials ("spots") for domestic and
international markets. The Company has hired experienced management and
supporting staff and has engaged directors of television commercial productions.
The Company expects to begin producing television commercials in the second half
of 2001. In May 2001, the Company entered into a sublease agreement ending on
March 31, 2003 for its television commercial production operations for an annual
rent of $108,000.
F-16