

Summary
Learn from international film business specialist David Zannoni, who works with producers and service providers all over the world
Gain clear, practical tools to stay compliant with the DSM Directive and protect your projects from costly missteps
The European Union’s DSM Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/790) has reshaped the way European producers must work with authors and performers. If you’re a producer in Europe, you now face strict legal obligations to report on the exploitation of works, income generated, and remuneration. With compliance deadlines already in effect across EU member states, understanding this Directive is not just important, it’s urgent. This Stage 32 exclusive webinar will show you exactly what you need to know to stay ahead!
Many producers are still unaware of what the DSM Directive requires or underestimate the administrative and financial burden it can bring. Missteps in reporting can lead to serious risks, including penalties, disputes with talent, or even stalled projects. Creatives often ask: How do I know if I’m compliant? What exactly do I need to report? Are there tools to make this easier? This webinar tackles these questions head-on so you don’t get caught unprepared.
Your host David Zannoni is an International Film Business Specialist with Freeway Entertainment, a leading global provider of Collection Account Management, Escrow, and Residual Payroll services. As Freeway’s representative for North America, David works directly with producers, financiers, and service providers worldwide. Through his own consultancy, Zannoni Media, and as delegate of the Mexican National Chamber for the Film Industry (CANACINE), David has built a career helping filmmakers navigate international legal, financial, and compliance issues. He is uniquely qualified to guide you through the DSM Directive and how it affects your productions.
In this interactive Stage 32 webinar, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the DSM Directive, the obligations it creates for producers, and the tools you can use to remain compliant. You’ll walk away with clarity on EU directives, reporting requirements, practical compliance strategies, and the latest solutions—from collection accounts to DIY approaches. By the end of the webinar, you’ll know exactly how to protect yourself, your projects, and your collaborations with authors and performers!
PLUS! You will receive the following handout to help you:
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The DSM Directive and Reporting Obligations for European Producers
PRAISE FOR DAIVD'S TEACHINGS:
"I went into this one expecting it to be dry as a bone in the sun. I was so wrong. David is incredible and lovely and clearly knows his stuff."
- Cynthia P.
"Eye-opening information. A no-brainer approach that wouldn't be so obvious to the uninitiated."
- Gary O.
"By far, the best class I've seen on the subject."
Kirk K.
"David is a fantastic teacher. And what a voice! I could listen to him all day. More importantly, I learned so very much!"
- Isabella T.
What You'll Learn
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EU Directives – What Are They?
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What are directives issued by the Union European?
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How does a directive work under EU law?
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How do the EU member countries implement EU directives?
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When do EU directives become effective by law?
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Who is subject to European legislation?
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The DSM Directive
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What is the DSM Directive?
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As of when will the DSM Directive be of effect?
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What the DSM Directive says about exploitation of works and remuneration
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The benefits of the DSM Directive for authors and performers
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The consequences of the DSM Directive for European film producers
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Reporting obligations Under The DSM Directive
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The reporting obligations
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Defining the exploitation of work and performance
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Exploitation methods, generated income, and remuneration
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The Frequency of reporting
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Transparency, effectiveness and proportionality
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Complying With Reporting Obligations In The Film Industry
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The 6 most common challenges to complying
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How to become compliant with the DSM Directive
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Understanding how Collection Accounts work
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Softwares to become reporting compliant
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“Do it yourself” alternatives to softwares
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Managing your royalty & producers statements
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Q&A with David
Who Should Attend
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European film producers who need to understand and comply with the DSM Directive
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International producers, financiers, and service providers working with EU-based projects
Executive

David Zannoni is the representative for North America for Freeway Entertainment, a leading global provider of Collection Account Management, Escrow and Residual Payroll services for film, television and animation productions. For Freeway, David is involved in relationship management and business development.
David also runs his consultancy firm Zannoni Media. He focuses particularly on global service providers in the audiovisual industry and international film and TV productions. He is also the delegate of the Mexican National Chamber for the Film Industry (CANACINE) in the State of Quintana Roo.
As a film business specialist, David is continuously present at international film markets, festivals, and conferences, including the Cannes Film Festival, the American Film Market, Ventana Sur, the Toronto International Film Festival and Iberseries Platino Industria.
David has given presentations, workshops and seminars at universities across the globe and at events such as the yearly conference of the National Association of Latino Independent Producers in the US (NALIP), the Winston Baker Film Finance Conferences, the Rio Film Market and the Bogota Audiovisual Market (BAM).
Testimonials
PRAISE FOR DAIVD'S TEACHINGS:
"I went into this one expecting it to be dry as a bone in the sun. I was so wrong. David is incredible and lovely and clearly knows his stuff."
- Cynthia P.
"Eye-opening information. A no-brainer approach that wouldn't be so obvious to the uninitiated."
- Gary O.
"By far, the best class I've seen on the subject."
Kirk K.
"David is a fantastic teacher. And what a voice! I could listen to him all day. More importantly, I learned so very much!"
- Isabella T.