How to Get the Film Rights to Someone’s Story

How to Get the Film Rights to Someone’s Story People have a legitimate right to own their personal story. But many are simply shocked to find that a film is made about them. And without anyone ever asking permission to use their works! However, as a filmmaker? It’s important to acquire the proper film rights […]

How to Get a Documentary Film Grant

How to Get a Documentary Film Grant Applying for film grants is something that many aspiring filmmakers find challenging. Each grant typically has its own individual requirements and rules. There’s a lot of paperwork and different steps involved. It can make navigating the process of securing film financing all but simple for the average filmmaker. […]

Permissions Needed to Film a Commercial Business

If you’re planning a film shoot inside or anywhere near a commercial business, and your intent is to use that commercial business in your film in any capacity. You’re going to need permission. Acquiring the permissions necessary to film a commercial business is a big responsibility for a filmmaker. And the task should be taken […]

Understanding Your Screenplay Purchase Agreement

If you’re a screenwriter or filmmaker, there’s a pretty good chance that at some point you’re going to face the opportunity either to sell, or to purchase, a screenplay. In fact, the screenplay represents one of the most important elements to producing a motion picture. Without it, you don’t have much of a story nor […]

How to Research Chain of Title in a Film

Obtaining the chain of title in a film is a process. It can be used to describe the ownership of copyright rights and to whom they are provided. While determining the chain of title in a film can get complicated, learning how to research chain of title in a film is incredibly important. And it […]

What is SAG Ultra Low Budget?

For independent filmmakers considering a short film project on a low budget but who still wish to hire union film crews, SAG Ultra Low Budget Project Agreements are a unique opportunity. Say you’re considering an ultra low budget film. One that will run under $300,000 and ideally ranges in between $100,000 and $200,000. You would […]

What Is Copyright Clearance & How Does it Work for Filmmakers?

As a filmmaker, clearing copyrights through the copyright clearance center (CCC) is something that will almost certainly come up at some point. Clearing copyrights through the CCC represents a unique process for filmmakers. But what is copyright clearance exactly? The Copyright Clearance Center (CCC) represents a nonprofit organization that was formed in 1977 out of […]

What’s Included in a Reality TV Collaboration Agreement?

If you’re filming a reality television series, you’re going to need to take steps in advance to protect yourself. In fact, before you can begin filming you’re going to need a reality TV collaboration agreement. Filmmaking, even producing a reality TV show, requires proper permissions. As well as agreement forms to be signed prior to […]

Can an Actor Sign a Release Form Days After Shooting?

Signed actor release forms are an integral part of any commercial film shoot. They provide a unique agreement between the actors and the filmmaker. This allows filmed footage of a performance to be utilized in various capacities and without potential legal repercussions. Without signed actor release forms, the performance you film does not technically belong […]

Negotiating a Production Company Location Agreement

Negotiating a Production Company Location Agreement Selecting a location and negotiating a production company location agreement is certainly a challenge many filmmakers find to be daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, negotiating a production company location agreement is an important step of the planning process in regards to preparing for a film […]