Q: Can I still release a comedy film if another production released a project with the same name?

I wrote a comedy script years ago and registered it through the Writers Guild of America. It took some time to raise funds to shoot the pilot and by the time we did, another production put their concept with the same title online before we could. Did I lose out on using the title? I have a finished pilot that I'm scared I can't release. Help!

1 Lawyer Answer
Donovan A Rodriques
Donovan A Rodriques
Answered
  • Entertainment & Sports Law Lawyer
  • New York, NY

A: You can use the title, provided that there are no prohibitions under unfair competition and trademark law, and both you and the owner of the other title are not members of the Motion Picture Association of America.

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