11 Apr Completion Bonds: Protecting Film Investors from Unforeseen Circumstances

The filming of the movie The Beekeeper, starring Jason Statham, serves as an illustration of a production where a completion bond would have been crucial. Independent films like The Beekeeper often rely on multiple third-party financiers, making completion guarantees essential to secure funding and protect investments in a picture.

What is a Completion Bond

Completion bonds, also known as completion guarantees, are a form of insurance in the film industry that assure financiers and investors that a movie will be completed on time and within budget. In cases where unforeseen circumstances prevent completion, the bond company steps in to either provide additional funds or reimburse the investors.

For reasons of confidentiality and to protect the reputation of producers and investors, contracts that involve completion bonds are not disclosed to the public. However, their role is integral in providing financial security and confidence in the unpredictable realm of film production.

What Happened During Filming of The Beekeeper

During the production of The Beekeeper, Jason Statham immersed himself in authentic beekeeping practices for the film’s opening sequence. Director David Ayer revealed that Statham handled real hives and performed genuine beekeeping tasks on set. Interestingly, while Statham remained unstung, Ayer himself was stung multiple times due to wearing black socks, which bees associate with predators like bears. The incident did not lead to a hospitalization and David was back on set the next day directing. There are no reports of incidents during the filming of The Beekeeper that significantly disrupted production or posed a risk of derailing the project. But the point is that there could have been.

In practice, if a film encounters significant issues—such as a director’s illness or other production halts—the completion bond company may step in to manage the situation. This can involve providing additional funds, taking control of the production, or, in extreme cases, reimbursing the financiers if the project cannot be completed.

With over eight years of experience supporting production companies, Natasha Bobbit of Barrow Group brings in-depth expertise in film insurance. For guidance on insuring your next project, contact Barrow Group at 770-338-7392.