Understanding Clean Chain of Title, E&O Insurance, and Film Distribution

Before a film is ever distributed the producer must work with actors, props, locations, and a variety of other elements in order to create the production. The artistic creation, the result of hundreds of hours of combined labor among cast, crew, and support staff, represents proprietary property. That can then be subject to a host […]

A Filmmaker’s Guide to Title Clearing Services

A clean chain of title is an important aspect to any film or television media production. The clean chain of title begins with a title report and a letter of opinion. Stating that the filmmakers have taken the necessary steps to assess the potential liability or risks. All associated with producing a film under a […]

What is a Film and Television Letter of Opinion?

Whenever a film is produced and prepared for distribution several steps must be taken to ensure there will be no legal repercussions. Especially in regards to copyright or trademark infringement. The film’s title is one of the hardest decisions to make. Particularly when it comes to distributing a film or television show. Why? Because there […]

Understanding Film Clearances and Releases Required for Distribution

Before a film is produced it will begin going through a process of clearance review. To ensure all appropriate steps are taken to limit potential risk of copyright or trademark infringement. In fact, long before a film can be distributed, it must go through several steps of review. Known as film clearances and releases. To […]

What is an Actor Letter of Intent?

Much of the filmmaking process behind the scenes is contractual and of a legal nature. You might not realize it if you’re in front of the screen. But any producer will tell you that much of their job is focused on ensuring all appropriate steps have been taken. To ensure there are no future legal […]

What is a Negative Pickup Deal in Film?

One of the greatest challenges in the entertainment industry is in the fact that films face major struggles in financing. Production costs are incredible. Without financing or funding of some sort, even the best scripts can go unproduced. Finding the right investors can take time. And when immediate capital is necessary, time is certainly not […]

When is the No Animals Harmed in Film Disclaimer Included in a Film?

Whenever animals are involved in the production of a film, certain disclaimers may be used to prevent from having animal rights activists breathing down the backs of those who created the film. You might have seen the familiar, “no animals were harmed during the filming of this production,” disclaimer at the end of a film, […]

Is there a Law Limiting Filming and Drone Filming in Public?

State-by-state laws and regulations regarding filming in public vary. Those pertaining to the use of drones in public vary especially from one locale to another. In fact, filming with drones can be challenging if you intend to film in certain public areas, but is there a law limiting filming and drone filming in public? As […]

Are Residents Entitled for Compensation Due to Film Crew Blocking Streets?

In most cases, when a film crew enters a public area or a residential area to produce a commercial shoot. There are rules and regulations that prevent them from blocking the streets. Or otherwise disrupting the residents unless they have a permit to do so. As a resident that has dealt with a film crew […]

How the Motion Picture Association Film Ratings System Works

How the Motion Picture Association Film Ratings System Works The Motion Picture Association film ratings system provides unique ratings for films and motion pictures. That are used to help parents and adults decide what films are most suitable for various audiences. Including children and young adults. The current film ratings system has been integral to […]