Friday, 5 February 2010

Rights to your short film

There are frequently conditions of entry that become legal requirements for the films entered into certain competitions, particularly if films are to be exhibited online or screened at festivals supported by industry sponsors. The thing to do is to make sure that you retain "artistic property" of your film up to the point where are happy to "sell" this in return for recognition, exhibition or whatever prize is on offer. You'll only be able to distribute and screen your film in public if it is "cleared". This means that you have written permission to use everything and everyone that appears in your film. This includes script, music, locations, actors, contributions, products and company logos. Companies are broadcasters are particularly hot on this area as they are likely to be sued if they show something that has not been approved by all "parties with an interest" in the film.

"It is certainly better to produce a film that has a "good idea", thats executed as effectively as possible and with an impact on its audience" than a more complex film with its energies dissipated. Ultimately, it is the quality of your short film that will be the key determinant in its success. The process of judging "quality" is, however, always going to be highly subjective, so don't be too disenchanted if your film doesn't achieve the recognition it might deserve. You'll have learned so much along the way."

REFERENCING www.mediamagazine.org.uk, Symon Quy

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