When is a Crew Release Form for Film Production Required?

Your cast and crew makeup a big part of your film production bringing forth all of the necessary qualities and skills required to set your film apart from the competition. If you’re wondering when a crew release form for film production is required. And what is involved in the process of having a release form filled out, you’re certainly not alone. Many filmmakers, especially those that are new to independent filmmaking, wonder about the various release forms and contracts that are involved throughout the production process. 

It’s hard not to wonder, or to worry, about these forms. You hear so many horror stories about what happens when a filmmaker forgets to have a single actor or crew member sign a release.

You hear distributors talk about turning down great films for no reason. Other than not having a clean chain of title. Or not having the necessary release forms in order.

And you hear about independent film producers, just like yourself, who see their dreams shattered. All because someone on their crew forgot to get a form from just one individual that was involved in the production. Why does it matter so much?

What are Crew Release Forms?

Crew release forms are contracts that are entered between the producer or production company. And the crew member dictating the work relationship that is made between the two parties. And the release of such work or ownership to copyright such work to the producer.

The crew release form for film production basically states that the crew member involved will furnish particular services for the production. And, in doing so, will authorize the producer to use the work without any obligation.

Additionally, these forms release the crew member from any ownership to the work once it is completed. This makes the film producer the legal owner to the work. And to any copyright rights that come along with the work.

Thus, the crew release form constitutes an agreement made between the two parties to allow work to be completed, without obligation, and to release copyright ownership rights to the producer. Rather than to the original creator as would normally be the case for U.S. Copyright law.

What’s Included in a Crew Release Form for Film Production?

The crew release form for film production is going to include a lot of important information that specifically dictates the agreement made between the filmmaker or crew member and the producer or production company.

First, the crew release form is going to specify who is entering the agreement. The producer’s name and the crew member’s name will both be included. 

Contact Details

Next, the form is going to include contact details. And the release statement which basically says that a signature on the form releases the work of the crew member to the producer.

And constitutes no obligation by the producer to use the work in the finished film project. Although such would be allowed based on the signed document.

Finally, the crew release form for film production is going to include a signature from both parties. Without a signature from the crew member and the producer, the form is not valid. And would not be legally permissible in a civil court should a future lawsuit be filed.

When is a Crew Release Form for Film Production Needed?

Anytime you have a crew member such as a cinematographer, gaffer, or any other individual working the set you will want to have them sign a crew release form.

Signing the form releases their work to you, the producer. So that you can legally maintain copyright ownership. This is a must if you want to keep a clean chain of title that will pass for E&O insurance and distribution in the future.