Film/Video Release Form
I. About the Production
What is the working title of the film/video?
Who is producing the film/video? (Name of company or individual)
Contact Person's Full Name:
Contact Person's Phone Number:
Contact Person's Email:
Brief Description of the Project (Briefly describe the film/video's purpose and content. (e.g., Documentary about local artists, narrative short film, commercial for X product)):
When will the filming/recording take place? (Include specific dates or a range of dates):
Where will the filming/recording take place? (Be as specific as possible, e.g., "John Smith's house at 123 Main Street, Anytown" or "Various locations in Anytown Park")
II. About the Participant/Subject
Full Name:
Address:
Phone Number:
Email:
Age:
If Participant is a Minor:
Parent/Guardian Full Name:
Parent/Guardian Address (If different from minor's):
Parent/Guardian Phone Number:
Parent/Guardian Email:
III. Usage Rights and Release
How will the participant appear in the film/video? (e.g., Interviewee, background extra, performing a specific task)
How will the footage be used? (e.g., In the film/video itself, promotional materials, online distribution, film festivals, educational purposes) Be very specific and list all intended uses.
Where will the film/video be shown/distributed? (e.g., Worldwide, specific countries, online only)
How long will the production company have the right to use the footage? (e.g., In perpetuity, for a specific number of years)
Will the participant receive any compensation for their appearance/contribution?
Release of Liability:
Waiver of Moral Rights:
The participant has read and understands the terms of the release and agrees to them.
IV. Signatures
Participant, please sign here.
If Participant is a Minor, Parent/Guardian, please sign here.
Form Template Instructions
Form Template Instructions
Please remove Form Template Instructions before publishing this form
Important Considerations:
- Legal Counsel: It is highly recommended to have an attorney review your Film/Video Release Form to ensure it is legally sound and protects your interests. Laws regarding releases vary by jurisdiction.
- Clarity and Specificity: Use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon or legalese that the participant may not understand. The more specific you are, the better.
- Informed Consent: Ensure that the participant understands the terms of the release before signing. Give them ample time to read it and ask questions.
- Witness: It's a good idea to have a witness present when the release form is signed.
- Copies: Provide the participant with a copy of the signed release form.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive Information Gathering: It collects necessary details about the production, the participant, and the usage rights. This is crucial for clarity and avoiding misunderstandings later.
- Addresses Key Legal Points: It includes sections for release of liability, waiver of moral rights (important, but requires legal counsel), and participant's understanding and agreement. These are vital for protecting the production company.
- Handles Minors: It correctly includes provisions for parental/guardian consent if the participant is a minor.
- Organized Structure: The form is well-organized into logical sections, making it easier to read and understand.
Areas for Improvement and Further Consideration:
Specificity is Key: While the form prompts for details, it's crucial to be as specific as possible in each section. Vague terms can lead to disputes. For example:
- Scope of Use: Instead of just "promotional materials," specify which promotional materials (e.g., "website, social media, posters, trailers"). List all intended uses.
- Territory: "Worldwide" is broad. Consider if you truly need worldwide rights or if specific regions are sufficient. The narrower the scope, the better for the participant.
- Duration of Use: "In perpetuity" is a strong commitment. Consider if a shorter, renewable term might be more appropriate.
- Description of Appearance/Contribution: Be very clear. "Interviewee" is good, but if they're also performing a specific action, note that (e.g., "Interviewee discussing their artwork and demonstrating their painting technique").
Consider Adding:
- Representations and Warranties: A statement where the participant confirms they have the right to grant the permissions given (e.g., they own the copyright to any materials they are providing).
- Indemnification Clause: A clause where the participant agrees to indemnify the production company against any claims arising from their participation (this is often related to representations and warranties). Again, legal counsel is necessary.
- Severability Clause: A clause stating that if one part of the agreement is found invalid, the rest remains in effect.
- Governing Law: Specify which state's or country's law will govern the agreement.
- Entire Agreement: A clause stating that the written agreement represents the entire understanding between the parties.