ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

8 years, 9 months ago - Liam Swann

Hello,

I can't seem the find a direct black-and-white answer to this question on Google etc. (the answer will be out there, I know).

I usually write/make or work on narrative fiction however, I have been approached multiple times about a producing documentary, twice about deceased people. One an actor and the other, the founder of a notable football team.

I need to know what clearances I need to do so. For example, the documentary about the actor, other than the right to use clips (copyright) of the films he has appeared in, do I need any other permissions to produce a film about his life. Do I need permission from his estate and/or family?

The football documentary, I was approached directly by the club, so I know I have the clearance to use their logos, ground, staff, and players but, the subject (the founder) died many years ago. There isn't much footage of him, and any photographs date back to the 1800s (so I assume they're public domain?, unless bought by a stock agency?) so, what rights do I need to (again) tell his story? (you would assume this was covered by the club, but it's a far less professional operation than one might assume).

The same question applies for brands. E.G if I were to make a film about Harry Potter fans, what permissions/clearances would I need? (I'm not making a film about Harry Potter fans - it's purely hypothetical).

Thank you,

Liam.