Saturday, January 20, 2018

Film And Television Script Clearance And Legal Issues

By Jeffrey Price


When it comes to writing, whether a book, a screenplay or other project, it is important to follow all copyright rules. For, if not careful, an author can be sued for copyright infringement, or in the case of non-fiction, libel. When it comes to writing for movies and tv, there are a number of film and television script clearance houses which can assure this is the case.

Coordinators working in this area are responsible for a lot of areas. These areas include clearance of copyright and legal issues, providing a first draft to writers and producers and assuring a project stays on schedule and within budgetary guidelines. When clearing a script, a coordinator can either do so through proofreading or by using a software program which can identify copyright infringement and legal issues.

It is also the job of the coordinator to confirm there are no other legal issues with regards to the project. While there is often more than one pass necessary, the coordinator provides the first draft to producers and writers. After which, these individuals make notations which can improve the project, then return the script back to the coordinator. In the process, coordinator becomes a liaison between production staff and writers throughout the course of the project.

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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