Movie Star Law: Negotiating Talent Deals in the Film Industry
1h 4m
Created on October 08, 2024
Intermediate
Overview
Humanity is hardwired to tell stories. From the ancient Greek chorus, the travelling troubadours of the Middle Ages, the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's England, to the Hollywood Hills, this seems to be a constant. With the emergence of the moving image, so too have movie stars emerged as a pillar of the entertainment industry and popular culture more generally.
In this presentation, Jon Mechanic will give you a high-level crash course in talent agreements.
First, we will review some of the legal foundations of talent agreements, drawing on principles from contract law, labor and employment, and copyright law.
Second, we will take you through some of the key features and clauses in a performer agreement.
Among other things, we will explore or touch on the following:
- Contract formation
- The distinction between independent contractor and employee
- Work-for-hire and assignment under copyright law
- Moral rights
- Loanout companies and inducement letters
- Key performer agreements clauses, including, without limitation: Engagement, compensation, travel, credit, publicity, morals clauses, assignment, and remedies
Learning Objectives:
- Examine the legal foundations of talent negotiations, including under contract law, labor and employment, and copyright laws
- Identify the moving parts involved in negotiating a performer agreement
- Appreciate the importance that the laws of different countries play in the international film industry
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