Film producers could have careers ruined by old emails

It's a well known fact in the film industry that private emails between producers are not always 'strictly professional', and comments like those of Scott Rudin and Amy Pascal are just the tip of the iceberg.

With Sony still facing a PR disaster, and execs having to issue public apologies, shouldn't film producers be reviewing how they conduct their business with others when emails have suddenly become so vulnerable?

It appeared this week that hacked emails could gain international attention, and while private conversations can get taken out of context, it's pretty hard to defend racist or damaging remarks made about other people.

Film producers often go back and forth, negotiating film deals, talking about talent, attachments, salaries and perceived value. What if a whole bunch of these emails from different companies suddenly appeared on the web?

Scott Rudin 'might' be able to get away with it, but more independent, less influential producers could be ruined overnight if they get caught bashing actors or other powerful entertainment figures. It's hard enough getting a job in the film industry as it is let alone keeping one alive after burning bridges.

The lesson learned in the Sony case is people should keep personal opinions about others off the company inbox, while sticking to the business issues on the job. Otherwise, those kind of emails could be career ending, and damaging for a company's reputation as well. Relationships are vital in the film industry. Destroy one, and suddenly you lose access to hundreds of people.