Have you ever watched a TV show or movie that’s set in the past and wondered where they got all those old vehicles? You might assume the Hollywood studios are all stocked with fleets of old vehicles for the plucking. But you’d be wrong. First, not all film production takes place in Hollywood and second, it would be impossible to stock every conceivable car or truck to satisfy all the unique demands for production.
Like everyone else, production companies rent vehicles just like they do most of their other common props. The business of managing “picture cars,” as they’re commonly referred, falls to companies that specialize in this exact thing. But even these car casting agents must turn to the public for certain vehicles. And that might be good news for you – if you have what they’re looking for.
As someone who once rented a car to a History Channel production and owns another that saw regular TV appearances on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia I know the excitement of having a collector car featured on screen. Do it often enough and it can also be an exciting way to earning some extra income.
Whether you own a classic muscle car, a vintage luxury vehicle, or an iconic 1980s sports car, there are ways to increase your chances of being a star. Here’s how you can make it happen and some advice on whether renting your car is a smart financial move.
Have What They Need
Before diving into the world of film car rentals, it’s important to understand what types of vehicles are in demand. Production companies often look for cars that match the precise era and setting of their project. But here’s the secret: they need more daily drivers and background vehicles than they do hero cars.
For every chase scene with a vintage sports car, the streetscape needs to be filled with a realistic representation of what the general public was driving at the time depicted. For a story set in 1963, that means a cross-section of cars and trucks from the post-WWII era up to that point. Plain-Jane sedans, workaday pickups, and a smattering of station wagons make for a realistic setting.
According my friend and colleague Jamie Kitman, who runs New York-based film car agency Octane Film Cars, commercial vehicles are also important. “Strategically-placed moving trucks and delivery vans are the easiest way to hide modern infrastructure like ATMs and cell phone shops on an otherwise vintage-looking city block,” he says. “Otherwise the set dressers have to construct a façade or otherwise dodge the anachronistic feature.” He should know, having provided vehicles to The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and other productions.
Don’t dismiss service vehicles like ambulances, police cars, hearses, and military vehicles either. They may not be needed as often as a navy blue Impala, but having the exact vehicle might give you leverage for your fee.
Cars in excellent condition, whether they are classic or modern, are always desirable. After all, productions want vehicles that look great on camera and require minimal prep work. However, for the sake of realism, a little bit of genuine patina on a less-than-perfect working man’s car is just as good.
Register with a Car Casting Agency
One of the most effective ways to get your car on the radar of production companies is to register with a car casting agency. These agencies, like Octane Film Cars as mentioned earlier, specialize in providing vehicles for films, TV shows, commercials, and photoshoots.
You might be surprised to find they’re located all over the country. New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and other areas are popular film production locales. It’s generally preferable to rent a car locally than for producers to shell out for cross-country transportation, storage, and insurance.
Research and find an agency that has a strong track record of placing cars in productions. Some agencies specialize in certain types of vehicles, so make sure your car fits their niche. When registering, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your car, including make, model, year, color, condition, and any modifications. High-quality photos are also crucial.
Don’t be surprised if, like everyone else in the industry, your phone doesn’t immediately ring off the hook. Once you register, check in from time to time. Keep your registration up to date with any changes to your vehicle. You should also keep your contact information current so the agency can reach you if your car is a good fit for a project.
Weighing the Financial Benefits
Getting the call and having your car featured in a film or TV show can be thrilling. However, it’s essential to understand the financial side of the opportunity. This is particularly true if you’re plan to offset ownership and maintenance costs by renting your car out.
Production companies typically pay rental fees that vary depending on the car’s rarity, condition, and the length of the shoot. These fees can range from a few hundred dollars (I was paid $100 for two hours of shooting time) to several thousand per day. The production company should provide insurance that covers any damage to your car during filming. However, you should review these policies carefully to ensure you’re fully protected.
Renting out your car could potentially allow you to write off some of the expenses related to its maintenance, storage, and transportation. As always, consult with a tax professional to understand how this could apply to your situation before committing to any terms.
Renting your car to a film production can be a smart way to earn extra income, and maybe even get on set with the cast. But it also comes with potential risks like on-set accidents, excessive wear and tear, and logistical challenges can arise. It’s important to weigh these risks against the potential rewards and make sure you’re comfortable with the level of exposure your car will have.
There’s no denying the thrill of seeing your car on TV or the big screen. Should you be so lucky, the experience can be incredibly rewarding and memorable. But go into it informed. Understand the market’s needs, register with a car casting agency, and carefully considering the financial implications. Make sure you go into with smart decisions that benefit both you and your beloved vehicle.