Should Work be Copyrighted to Enter Film Festivals?

Should Work be Copyrighted to Enter Film Festivals? As a new or aspiring independent film producer that’s considering the idea of entering a film into a local film festival you’re probably working hard to cover all the bases. Perhaps you even have a checklist of “things to do” in connection with your submission – prepare […]

Negative Pickup Financing & Your Film Production

Negative Pickup Financing & Your Film Production  Few industries include such unique financing as the motion picture business. It’s no surprise that films cost a lot to produce. Which is probably why film financing takes many unique structures in the film world. In addition to equity financing, film distribution rights may also be secured through […]

Important Music Copyright Laws for Film Producers

Important Music Copyright Laws for Film Producers The use of music in a film can create a more robust experience for your audience while adding unique value to your story. But like other forms of creative works, music is protected by U.S. Copyright Law. In fact, producers must be aware of music copyright laws for […]

What’s Included in a Private Property Location Agreement for Film Production?

What’s Included in a Private Property Location Agreement for Film Production

A great location, as any filmmaker will tell you, is worth its weight in gold. In terms of providing the production with great value. As it’s one of the key factors in producing an amazing film that entertains your audience. Drawing them in and immersing them in your story. Oftentimes, the best locations are located […]

When is a Film Work for Hire Agreement Used in Film Production & Why?

When is a Film Work for Hire Agreement Used in Film Production & Why? Throughout the production of any film there are bound to be many different agreements. Ones made between contractors, freelancers, and the employees. Which make up the cast and crew involved in getting the job done. The film work for hire agreement […]

Film Adaptation Legal Issues & Challenges in Optioning Literary Works

Film Adaptation Legal Issues & Challenges in Optioning Literary Works Film producers draw inspiration from a variety of sources including everyday experiences, previously published or otherwise copyrighted literary works. And the people and places they’re involved with. In fact it’s quite common for a film adaptation to be produced as a direct result of the […]

Important Legal Issues to Consider when Making a Film

Important Legal Issues to Consider when Making a Film

As a filmmaker, when the idea for a new film project comes to mind you’re bound to have a strong desire to get started right away. But there are also many important legal issues to consider when making a film and they shouldn’t be overlooked. Producing a motion picture can pose significant challenges. Even for […]

A Filmmaker’s Guide to Legal Issues of Film Adaptation

A Filmmaker’s Guide to Legal Issues of Film Adaptation There’s no doubt that filmmakers draw inspiration from a variety of sources, books and novels. As well as other forms of intellectual property often forming the basis. Upon which a script or screenplay is written. Some might even say that literature and film. Although worlds apart […]

Can You Copyright a Film Treatment?

Can You Copyright a Film Treatment? As a filmmaker, you’ve likely encountered plenty of situations in which you sought rights to use copyrighted works such as music or the written work of an author. Copyright law protects these and other works to prevent others from using or otherwise recreating the works without explicit permission. In […]

Legal Concerns in Producing a Film About Someone’s Biography

Legal Concerns in Producing a Film About Someone’s Biography Filmmakers frequently engage in projects that can take a variety of potential legal turns, it’s really all part of the process. Particularly, when a filmmaker is interested in producing a film about someone’s biography there are a number of legal considerations which must be made ahead […]