Williamsburg, VA asked in Copyright and Entertainment / Sports for Virginia

Q: Can I use an actual news broadcast for a fictional movie??

I’m writing a YouTube episodic and wanted to use a few actual news broadcasts in the promo trailer. The show is a work of entirely fiction just loosely based on real life. I would be using less than 30 seconds of each broadcast.

2 Lawyer Answers
Barbara Berschler
Barbara Berschler
Answered
  • Intellectual Property Lawyer
  • Rockville, MD

A: The news broadcast itself is protected by copyright. You would need to get the permission of the owner of the copyright in the broadcast. You may be able to negotiate a licensed use for your fictional work. Best to work through a copyright counsel.

1 user found this answer helpful

Evelyn Suero
Evelyn Suero
Answered
  • Entertainment & Sports Law Lawyer
  • Miami, FL

A: If you want to use material that is protected by copyright you should obtain permission/license from the owner to avoid a claim of infringement. Rights of publicity of the individuals who appear on the footage should also be considered. Consult with a copyright attorney if you need assistance.

1 user found this answer helpful

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