In film and television, even the vehicles have contracts. From the DeLorean in Back to the Future to the black Charger in The Fast and the Furious, picture cars have become cultural icons — not just props. But behind every car that hits the screen is a legal document determining who owns it, who insures it, and who pays when something goes wrong.
For indie filmmakers, that document is often the unsung hero of production: the Picture Car Agreement.
🚗 What Exactly Is a Picture Car?
A “picture car” is any vehicle that appears on screen — hero cars, background cars, stunt cars, even stationary vehicles used for texture in a scene. Productions often rent or borrow them from collectors, dealerships, or specialized car wranglers.
In Hollywood, there are entire departments devoted to picture cars. But in the indie world, that “department” might just be you — and the owner of a vintage Camaro who’s trusting you not to set it on fire. That’s why getting the paperwork right matters just as much as lighting, sound, or camera gear.
What’s in a Picture Car Agreement
A Picture Car Agreement defines the terms between the production and the car owner or supplier. It sets expectations for how the vehicle will be used, who’s responsible for it, and how it will be protected.
A solid agreement typically covers:
- Vehicle description — make, model, color, VIN, condition (with photos).
- Duration & usage — how long it’s needed, whether it’s driven, static, or used for stunts.
- Compensation — daily or flat rates, plus payment for transport or prep.
- Insurance & liability — which policy covers the car during production.
- Maintenance & repairs — who fixes it if it breaks down or gets damaged.
- Storage & transport — how the car is moved, parked, and secured off-hours.
- Return & restoration — whether the car must be returned to its original condition.
For collectors and film crews alike, these details keep everyone sane — and solvent.
💡 Why It Matters
When you’re producing on a small budget, a damaged vehicle can sink your film faster than a bad review. A clear contract:
- defines who’s liable if the car is damaged or stolen,
- helps productions qualify for insurance, and
- reassures owners that their investment — sentimental or financial — is protected.
It’s also an act of professionalism. When you hand a car owner a proper agreement, you communicate that your set is serious and insured — not a gamble.
🚘 Insider Deep Dive: Advanced Picture Car Clauses
“If you’ve ever borrowed a classic car for a shoot or filmed a chase scene on a tight budget, you already know: one vague clause can cost you thousands.
Thoolie Insider Members unlock the Picture Car Deep Dive — covering stunt language, insurance riders, valuation disputes, and the behind-the-scenes clauses real productions rely on.”
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🏁 Final Takeaway
Every car on set is both an asset and a liability. A clean, well-written Picture Car Agreement isn’t just paperwork — it’s production insurance in human form.
The more prepared you are before the key turns in the ignition, the fewer surprises you’ll face when the cameras roll.
📚 Sources
- SAG-AFTRA: Contracts & Industry Resources
- Film Independent: Using Picture Cars in Independent Film
- The Hollywood Reporter: Why Paperwork Still Rules in Hollywood
Ready to Lock In Your Own Picture Car Agreement?
Don’t stop at the guide — build your production-ready Picture Car Agreement in minutes with Thoolie’s customizable Creator Contracts.
Our system tailors every clause to your project — from insurance coverage to restoration terms — so you can protect your production and keep your shoot moving.
