When Should Actors Sign Release Forms?

A signed actor release form represents a written, formal agreement between the actor and the filmmaker. This transfers ownership of a filmed performance to the filmmaker. These forms represent an integral part of the agreement made between an actor and a filmmaker. Without signed actor release forms, filmmakers face an uphill battle when it comes to using performances for profit or in various other instances. But when should actors sign release forms, exactly?

At Beverly Boy Productions we collect signed talent release forms, or talent release agreements upfront. In advance of the film production. We do this to prevent any potential legal issues later on. This way there’s no chance that someone forgets to get the form signed.

It’s a very good rule of thumb to focus on any legal protocols, such as acquiring all signed talent release agreements, prior to the start of production.

When to Get Actor Release Forms Signed

Getting an actor release form signed is absolutely vital and should not be overlooked under any circumstance. However, when you get the form signed can vary.

We recommend having all talent release forms signed in advance of the production. But some producers will collect talent release forms after the scheduled shoot. 

So ideally, when should actors sign release forms? The best answer is: before production begins.

Timing

However, some situations may give rise to a change in the process. It could lead to release forms being signed at different times along the filmmaking schedule.

Most production companies are going to request that talent involved in a film shoot will sign the release form immediately upon being contracted to be a part of the shoot, which will usually be well in advance of the actual scheduled production. 

When is a Signed Actor Release Form Necessary?

If you’re wondering, “When should actors sign release forms?” and the question comes up from more of a necessity standpoint? It all really depends on what your intent is and what you want to do with the film. 

Films that are not being produced for commercial use, such as a short video of your friends or family, will not require a talent release.

However, those that are created with any sort of commercial use in mind, or for publicity of any sort, will almost always require actors to sign release forms.

Individual’s Rights

Even if you think, “These are my friends, they won’t mind,” think again! People have a right to determine and dictate how their image is portrayed and distributed.

Therefore, without a signed actor release form from anyone that you film in a video which is publicly displayed for commercial or similar use, you risk potential legal implications down the road.

Should one your “friends” or any of the talent in your video come back and request that you not use their footage, pay them for the use of the footage, or they otherwise seek some kind of control over the footage that you captured.

So, when should actors sign release forms? As soon as possible, prior to the shoot, and anytime the footage will be displayed publicly or with any kind of commercial intent.