"We're quite optimistic that it will give potential financiers the confidence to get involved," said the spokesman, Barry G. Cox.

The film experienced many years of near-misses and outright rejection from major studios and potential financiers before finally being backed by its longtime supporter John Singleton.

The potential financiers were concerned that music licensing costs would cause the film to go way over budget.

Mr. Klein said that Judge Sabraw's decision would be "extremely helpful" in persuading potential financiers that they are likely to be repaid.

Freville wrote, produced and edited a promo trailer for No Image Available to attract potential financiers.

At one stage, he scoured the phone book for potential financiers.

First come the reviews, followed by box office numbers, then a decision the following Monday by a potential financier of Mr. Lipsky's next film.

Take it to a studio or other potential financier and potentially help with distribution (pre-sales)

The producer and screenwriter prepare a film pitch, or treatment, and present it to potential financiers.