Q&A: Where to find a pre-written legally binding release form for music from an unsigned artist and character basis?
Question by mike: Where to find a pre-written legally binding release form for music from an unsigned artist and character basis?
Basically, I need a release form that is legally binding that says I can use the artists work in my movie (Machinima) for commercial use without paying for it. Most people wouldn’t agree to this but this guy will. I just don’t want him saying, “Wow he made a lot of money off of this movie, I should see what I can get from him,” and suing me. The music is written by an unsigned artist in my area that should be fine with it but still, when it comes to making money a guys word is worth a lot less then his signature on a legally binding piece of paper. Also, I need one for allowing me to use a person to base a character off of whether it be looks, name or personality. Again, for free. I don’t want something like in Jay and Silent Bob Strikes Back happening where I have people hunting me down because they want money for using their characteristics in my movie. Can I write my own contract and have them sign it and it will be legally binding or will I have to pay a lawyer to write it? It’s just that this movie is something that none of us is getting paid for its just me and some friends making a Machinima (at the length of a feature film) and selling it online through a website (made by and hosted by me) without having to pay for it or getting sued for it. Also, we are abiding by the laws in the state of Ohio.
Thanks for the info on the Artist I found a good one and made a few changes then I will take it to a lawyer to review it. But what about the characters based on a persons likenesses? Can someone collect royalties because a character is based on their likenesses or is that just something in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back?
Best answer:
Answer by loser1051
Any good stationary store will have release forms, or you can try legal zoom for a lot more money.
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