How to Get Public Performance Rights for Movies
Figuring out how to get public performance rights for movies is a step that’s going to require due diligence and an understanding of basic copyright licensing agreements. While the process is relatively simple. And should not require much more than a simple communication with the original rights holder. The process of finding out who to speak with could take some time. Generally a phone call or a quick email is sufficient to get public performance rights for most movies. But depending on the audience and other needs, associated fees will vary.
Before you begin figuring out how to get public performance rights for movies, make sure you’re ready and prepared for communication with the original copyright holder. To help you out, we’ve put together this step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Determine Original Copyright Holder
The first step to figuring out how to get public performance rights for movies is to determine who holds the original copyright to the film.
You can check with the U.S. Copyright office directly. Or use other means of research to determine who holds the copyright. It’s important to find the original copyright holder so that you can obtain permission from the correct source.
Step 2: Communicate with Copyright Holder Directly
Once you’ve found out who owns the copyright to the film it’s time to communicate with the individual.
Make sure you’ve got details as to where you intend to show the film, where you will show the film, and how many people will attend the showing.
The copyright holder will want all of these details from you. So it’s important to have them in order before you request public performance rights.
Let the copyright owner know:
- That the screening will be open to the public.
- That the screening will take place in a public location such as a library, auditorium, or elsewhere.
- That access to the screening will not be restricted.
- Who you expect to attend the performance.
Step 3: Communicate with the Distributor
If you’re having trouble getting in touch with the original copyright owner. Or you can’t get a response from the copyright owner. Contact the original distributor that has rights to the film.
Oftentimes, the distributor will also have rights to or the authority to grant a public performance license. This happens a lot for documentaries and could be the case for many other forms of film and media.
Step 4: Consider Contacting a Licensing Service
When all else fails, or if you’re still unsure and haven’t made any progress in figuring out how to get public performance rights for movies, consider using a licensing service.
These services are common for feature films and provide a variety of different licensing options with just a few clicks online. Costs will vary based on the film’s release date and other factors but the process is generally quite simple.
In Summation
Once you’ve obtained your license, make sure you follow the agreement that was made. Showing the performance in the designated area and at designated times with it open to the public as agreed.
As you can see, figuring out how to get public performance rights for movies isn’t all that difficult. But the process can take some time. Make sure that you plan accordingly.
