Christos Michaels > Lee & Thompson LLP > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Lee & Thompson LLP‘s media finance practice has considerable experience in assisting banks with the financing of film and TV productions. Other types of financiers – including private equity firms, providers of post-equity finance, as well as post house and non-bank financiers – also turn to the team for assistance with media finance transactions as do producers, with the group often acting as production counsel on films. Sam Tatton-Brown leads the practice and is the go-to for film and TV financings. Christos Michaels assists finance clients with film-related financing issues. Nicki Parfitt represents a mix of financiers, sales agents and production companies, while Johan Ewing advises on the setting up and structuring of film and TV companies and projects. Sarah Cundall is the key associate to note, whose areas of expertise cover the financing, development, production and distribution of film and TV productions. Anwen Griffiths left the firm in March 2024.

Leading production companies turn to Lee & Thompson LLP for specialist advice on both national and international film and TV matters, including financing, production and distribution issues. Recent highlights included advising on award-winning TV series and films, such as “The Zone of Interest” where film and TV expert Reno Antoniades acted as executive producer. Christos Michaels leads the firm’s film practice and advises on a myriad of production matters, while Richard Lever leads the TV group, handling a mix of financings and commercial arrangements. Nicki Parfitt, a name to note for film sales agents, distributors, financiers, and production companies, heads up the internal film and TV department. Recently promoted partner Luke Carey is especially active in the film industry, while Antony Swiatek is known for his work with producers. Anwen Griffiths left the practice in March 2024.