Monday, January 29, 2018

Film And Television Script Clearance And Copyright Laws

By Jeffrey Price


When writing a screenplay, biography, book of other project, it is important to adhere to all laws with regards to copyright infringement. While most often these laws are related to writing, it should be noted that names of businesses, characters, locations, scenes and subject matter need also be unique. In order to assure this is the case, it is important to obtain film and television script clearance.

Whether working on a script or screenplay, the coordinator prepares the first draft, handling any clearance issues. When clearing a script, it needs to pass all copyright issues. As part of the process, the coordinator must work with legal staff to clear all characters, locations and subject matter whether by a physical review or software designed to catch these and other legal issues.

One of the major jobs of a coordinator is to proofread to assure there are no copyright or legal issues with a project. In the process, this individual oversees all drafts and revisions related to a script or screenplay. As this is the case, the coordinator also works as a liaison between production and writing teams.

Beyond legal issues, coordinators also proof scripts for grammar, spelling, punctuating and formatting before releasing a draft. The production team then reviews the draft and offers notations to writers and producers in relation to revisions. After which, the final copy is provided to producers, writers, cast and crew members in order to finalize a scene or episode.

As the project moves from draft status into the final phase, there can often be several rounds of revisions. As this is the case, it is imperative that all those working on the script remain patient throughout the process. While most often producers have the final word with regards to content, there can be times when a member of the cast can add or make changes. When this is the case, it is important that another clearance take place.

When working on location, it can often be necessary to expedite the revisions on a daily basis. As such, it is important that when revisions are made, actors follow suit. Otherwise, it can result in a delay with regards to production of an episode or film release.

Whatever the case, whether filming in studio or on location, it is important that a script be reviewed and cleared after each and every change to avoid legal issues. For, changes can often lead to a major issue and legal battles when this is not the case. As such, to avoid these issues, or having a film or show put on hold, it is important that clearance be the last step in the process prior to production.

Writers often have less knowledge in relation to character names, businesses, locations and subject matter of other projects than producers. As such, it is often up to these individuals to assure that a script is in compliance with copyright laws and legal issues. At the same time, it can often be crystal clear when a writer has committed libel with regards to a production based on real people. In either case, by allowing the legal team to have the final say, the responsibility for any of these issues moves into the hands of the legal team or studio rather than that of the writers or production team.




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