Must Know Obscenity Laws in Film in the US
Obscenity is one of the most controversial subjects to come up in regards to the First Amendment and up until the mid-19th century. Most regulations surrounding obscenity came about within individual communities and were not federally imposed. However, the turn of the 20th century would bring about new technology, name films and the expansion of […]
Can Filming Someone be Defaming?
Can Filming Someone be Defaming? As a filmmaker, you’re likely to face challenges associated with the potential for defamation if you don’t seek proper rights from those you film. You’re responsible for knowing what the rules and regulations are regarding filming people and acquiring the proper rights or permissions to use the footage, but when […]
Do Music and Talent Deals need to be Part of a Chain of Title in a Film?
Do Music and Talent Deals need to be Part of a Chain of Title in a Film? The acquisition of literary property involved in the production of a film is represented by what’s known as a chain of title. Navigating the chain of title in a film is a complex process. Which outlines the appropriate […]
Understanding and Avoiding a Defamation of Character in Film Lawsuit
Documentary filmmakers must understand the various potential legal challenges that come with producing footage including someone’s life story. Or other pertinent information with which one can connect the footage with the individual. The potential for defamation of character in film lawsuit is relatively high, especially if you’ve not acquired the proper life story rights or […]
6 Most Common Screenwriter Agreements & Screenplay Options
As a screenwriter, you’re going to want to familiarize yourself with the various screenwriter agreements that you could face along the course of your career. Knowledge is power. It’s always important to be legally ready when it comes to the different forms of screenplay options agreements and screenwriter agreements. As well as other types of […]
Screenwriter Agreements: What is the Screenplay Writers Agreement?
Screenwriter Agreements: What is the Screenplay Writers Agreement? As a screenwriter, you’re always looking for an opportunity to sell your screenplay. When working with a production company that is willing to pay for your work. You’re probably going to be asked to sign a screenplay writers agreement. But what does this mean for you, and […]
Navigating the Legal Issues of Documentary Filmmaking
As a documentary filmmaker, you’re going to face a lot of challenges but the process of producing a documentary film can still be incredibly rewarding. Navigating the potential legal issues of documentary filmmaking can pose some challenges that you might not be fully prepared for. Identifying potential legal issues in advance of the production process, […]
Top Legal Issues for Making Documentary Films Every Producer Must Know
As a filmmaker, the ideas and inspiration you come up with to create a film are almost certainly from another source. In fact, it’s normal for ideas and inspiration for films to come from a variety of outside sources. Including the people you’ve met and connected with in your lifetime, the places you’ve visited, and […]
Top 5 Considerations Under Fair Use Laws for Filmmakers
Fair use is a common protection brought up in Civil Court following the filing of a copyright infringement lawsuit against a filmmaker or documentarian. Fair use laws for filmmakers offer a protection against legal issues related to the use of copyrighted material without a license or payment for such use. As a documentary filmmaker, it’s […]
What is Copyright Clearance Procedure for Filmmakers?
As a film producer, you should already be aware of the importance of obtaining the proper copyright clearances for your project and the potential risks that come into play if you do not seek permission to use music, performances, or other copyrighted material in your productions. In fact, most filmmakers are familiar with this process, […]