Types of Film Distribution Agreements

Each of these distribution deals offers distinct advantages and challenges, tailored to the varying needs of a film's production and marketing strategy. The choice of a deal is influenced by factors such as the film's budget, target audience, market trends, and the reputation of the involved parties. As the film industry continues to evolve with digital technologies and changing viewer habits, these distribution models also adapt, reflecting the dynamic nature of film distribution in the global market....

28 November

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Exploring the Strength of Different Types of Trademarks

Posted by Ernest Goodman

in Entertainment Law, Trademark Law

The strength of a trademark significantly impacts its protectability and effectiveness in identifying and distinguishing a brand. Generic trademarks offer no protection due to their commonality. Descriptive trademarks are protectable only after acquiring a secondary meaning. Suggestive trademarks, being more abstract, are inherently protectable. Arbitrary trademarks rank among the strongest due to their uniqueness and distinctiveness....

28 November

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Can an Idea be Protected Under the Law?

Posted by Ernest Goodman

in Copyright Law, Entertainment Law

The key principle in federal copyright law is the distinction between an 'idea' and its 'expression'. This law protects the expression of ideas, not the ideas themselves. For filmmakers, this means that while a general plot concept, like a romantic comedy set in New York or California, is not protected, the actual script with its unique dialogue, character development, and scene descriptions, is....

22 November

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How to get financing for your independent film: Insights from lawyer Ernest Goodman

Posted by Ernest Goodman

in Copyright Law, Entertainment Law

Unfortunately, if your film isn't produced by Netflix, it's likely to be buried in their content library, and the same applies to Amazon. These platforms typically don't actively market films unless they're labeled as Amazon or Netflix originals. While there are distribution companies that can place your film on Netflix, significant earnings are not guaranteed. From my experience with numerous films, Netflix is often where they go to die....

12 November

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The Crucial Role of a Certificate of Clearance in Film Financing: Insights from Lawyer Ernest Goodman

Posted by Ernest Goodman

in Copyright Law, Entertainment Law, Trademark Law

Financiers and distributors are pivotal in transforming screenplays into cinematic realities. However, their support comes with a caveat: a strict adherence to legal assurances. Without a certificate of clearance, these entities fear the legal repercussions of copyright infringement, which can lead to costly lawsuits and project derailments. Hence, they typically refrain from financing projects lacking this essential document....

08 May

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All U.S. states except Louisiana have a primary heritage in English law

Posted by Ernest Goodman

in Entertainment Law, Legal Advice

In nations with a civil law system, legislation, statutes, or codes are the primary sources of law, and courts are required to adhere to these statutes. In common law nations, while courts are also required to follow statutes, they also have the authority to establish new law, known as common law or case law, through their rulings in particular cases. Additionally, they possess the power to declare a statute unconstitutional....