Hi there,
I have a short comedy script that refers to a famous (but dead) director's name in the title. The script also contains references to his films and may include a photograph of him, and/or his films. The film portrays the director in a completely positive light and could be said to be a tribute of sorts.
What are the copyright issues in this situation? Would I need to contact the director's estate for example, for permission to use his name, image etc?
Your feedback is greatly appreciated
Jenny W
I know DeNiro has copyrighted his image, but I think you're cool with a nameless dead director. But as for the photograph you'll be using, credit where credit is due: A photographer must have taken that photo.
quote:
Originally posted by theripper
I know DeNiro has copyrighted his image, but I think you're cool with a nameless dead director. But as for the photograph you'll be using, credit where credit is due: A photographer must have taken that photo.
Thanks Ripper. Hitchcock is the director I'm referring to. And what are your thoughts on the use of lobby cards from the 50s to adorn my character's apartment? Is contacting the studios necessary (I've never done it but imagine this is an arduous and lengthy process), or can I just credit them?
Jenny
Find out if the studio he released his movies from has rights to his like ness or not and if referanceing his films get permission from the copyright holder
william cheney of cheney productions film co www.cheney2004.50megs.com
william cheney of cheney productions film co www.cheney2004.50megs.com
Personally I wouldn't refer to other movies at all in a movie of my own: not because of legal issues, but because of the number of short movies I've seen where they've made some mention of some famous movie leaving me thinking 'boy, I really wish I was watching that movie and not this one' :).
