ASK & DISCUSS
INDEXNot exactly a Bio-Pic - What are the implications?
6 years, 1 month ago - Adam Gill
I want to make a film about a real-life artist (who passed away about twenty years ago) but I'm pretty sure their estate would object (Not because I plan to make any false allegations, just that their is a lot of money involved in their work).
I would be embellishing the story with my own creative input, so it wouldn't necessarily be considered a bio-pic.
Can I make a film about a fictional artist that parallels their life and work (without specifically featuring the actual artists work or using any real names etc.) ?
What do people think?
Thanks, Adam
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6 years, 1 month ago - Marlom Tander
Yes.
So long as you don't need anything controlled by the estate you're good to go.
As I understand it you can even use their name, and even create works "in the style of" for sets etc if that would make a for a better film. Your only real issue is whether or not you libel those still living.
Response from 6 years, 1 month ago - Marlom Tander SHOW
6 years, 1 month ago - Adam Gill
Thanks Malcolm. Sounds good. And no, I'm not intending to libel anyone, living or dead.
Response from 6 years, 1 month ago - Adam Gill SHOW
6 years, 1 month ago - Sam Brewster
See: Gus Van Sant's 'Last Days', a biopic loosely based on Kurt Cobain's last days. Truly emotional, without really needing to be factually accurate. Not sure about the entire legal around the film, but might be a good starting point to see how it could work.
Response from 6 years, 1 month ago - Sam Brewster SHOW
6 years, 1 month ago - Adam Gill
Thanks Sam. All good input. And certainly along the lines I was thinking of - Except that it's a visual artist that I'm looking to portray, so I'm going to have to create some artworks that resemble the original works, but are not actual copies. Your comment is much appreciated. Adam
Response from 6 years, 1 month ago - Adam Gill SHOW