Independent Filmmaker’s List of Crew and Talent Release Forms for Filming  

As an independent filmmaker, the crew and talent release forms that you must include in your chain of title are vital to both ensuring that you can obtain E&O insurance and for distribution. In fact, crew and talent release forms for filming are required in order to capture footage of a performer and use it in your finished film project. If you don’t have these release forms on file when you move to distribution, you will not be able to find a distributor. Likewise, if you don’t have these forms on film after distribution. You can face a lawsuit and may have little recourse or defense.

The truth is, crew and talent release forms for filming have the capacity to make or break your entire film production. Without them you could be left in a position in which you must start over entirely.

But keeping them all in order, and getting them all signed can certainly be challenging. 

What are Talent Release Forms?

Talent release forms are just like talent permission slips. They provide permission for the filmmaker to use the talent’s performance that is captured on film in their production.

The release also provides permission for the cinematographer to film the actor. These forms authorize the use of the talent’s voice, image or other features in a motion picture, commercial, television show or other format. 

What are Crew Release Forms?

Crew release forms are similar to talent release forms. Except they are the permission slips that are provided to crew members. Providing permission for the work performed by the crew member to become part of the work put into the finished production.

Crew member release forms basically provide for the right of the producer to utilize the performance and services provided by the crew member in the creation of the film project. But do not provide any guarantees that the services will be incorporated into the finished project.

In addition to the details specifying how services will or will not be incorporated into a film project. The crew release forms will also specify that there is no right for the crew member to claim copyright. Or other ownership of the work once completed in conjunction with the agreement.

Other Release Forms for Independent Filmmakers

In addition to the talent release forms that you must obtain from actors and other talent involved in a production. A filmmaker should also obtain release forms from crew and from location owners.

In fact, various release forms are necessary in the course of production. Including literary works releases, screenplay licensing releases, producer video releases, and the investor agreement.

The following appearance releases are vital to any production:

• Personal releases.
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• Talent releases.
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• Actor releases.
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• Location releases.
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• Produce releases. 
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• Music releases.

The Takeaway

If you’re trying to plan your production, crew and talent release forms for filming are your first step in establishing the appropriate rights and releases to the performances that you’re filming at the earliest stage of the production process.

In addition to those, you’ll also be required to obtain release forms for any music, locations, or other important areas in which you intend to film.