Do Music and Talent Deals need to be Part of a Chain of Title in a Film?
The acquisition of literary property involved in the production of a film is represented by what’s known as a chain of title. Navigating the chain of title in a film is a complex process. Which outlines the appropriate proof of ownership to literary property including music, screenplays, and ultimately a motion picture. As a filmmaker, you might be wondering. Do music and talent deals need to be part of a chain of title in a film?
This is a great question! As creating and maintaining a clean chain of title for a feature film is very important to the process.
Keep this in mind when moving forward with the distribution rights to a motion picture. Make sure the appropriate chain of title is in order! All original works used in the film have been properly licensed. But does this go for music and talent too?
Absolutely!
Chain of title typically includes original documentation relative to the rights assigned or licensed to the filmmaker by a third party. This can include things like copyrights to literary works or music, as well as the rights of publicity from talent.
The chain of title will run from the current owner of the film or project back to the original owner of any such property rights that are included. It is generally organized chronologically.
Music Rights Included in a Chain of Title
If you’re looking to sell a film, the very first action that the purchaser is going to take is to review your chain of title.
This is done to ensure there are no gaps. And that you have what is called a “clean chain of title”. Moreover, it represents all of the important rights licensing to the different elements of the film including talent and music.
This means, you should hold originals or duplicate originals of all agreements and other licenses obtained prior to your using music in the film.
Talent Rights Included in a Chain of Title
To sell a film after it has been produced, you’re going to need to prove ownership of the individual talent performances that went into the film’s creation.
When we answer the question, “Do music and talent deals need to be part of a chain of title in a film?” The answer is quite simply – yes! The chain of title should clearly outline the talent that was used in the creation of a film project.
Before you can sell the film, it will be important to prove that you have a signed talent release. As well as any copyright licenses from all actors and actresses that were involved in the production.
The Takeaway
Chain of title is an important representation of copyrights, trademarks, and rights of publicity that are required for the filmmaker. But do music and talent deals need to be part of a chain of title in a film?
Yes they do! You should be prepared to share the individual copyrights, trademarks and other points of interest relative to the production.
Finally, keeping these documents chronologically ordered is the best way to ensure you’re prepared with a clean chain of title should you ever wish to sell your film or film project.
