Who to contact for TV-show usage?

So, I've got a few scenes that require TV shows. Some audio-only, but a couple, visual as well. My original plan has always been to just shoot fake TV shows, myself. Of course, it'd be a whole lot more simpler to just get permission to use one that already exists. Plus, there are a couple recognizeable shows that would be kind of funny to see these characters watching.

Doesn't hurt to ask permission, but, who do I ask? If a show airs on TBS, does that mean that I need to contact TBS to ask for permission? How do I find out who owns the copywrite, and who can give me the thumbs-up to use their TV show?

Thanks.
 
Last edited:
Chances are, it won't be a whole lot simpler to get permission to use footage of a TV show. Just cause it's aired by TBS, doesn't mean that you get permission from them. Get a list of what shows you want to use, and talk to TBS, they might be able to put you on the right track, this could take ages. While they're trying to help you out, you also have to do your search to try and cut time, look at the production company of the show and try and get in contact with them, that's your best bet in getting onto the right path.

Alot of factors will go into it, is it a feature, a tv show, or a shot? what's the synopsis? what are the characters doing whilst watching the show? the list goes on, just be honest.

Then you can use their shows once you get permission from the right person.

But chances are, they'll say no. So have you free fake TV footage ready to shoot.
 
Yeah, I'm kind of expecting to get a "no", but I figure it's worth a shot. God, it would be so awesome if I could show my lead watching a re-run of "Saved by the Bell". Instant recognition, my target audience would identify with him, in so many ways. There are a good handfull of shows that would do the same trick. It's not just a matter of me having to do less work, but in defining this character.
 
A few things:

First - it’s copyright. A little peeve of mine.

It isn’t going to be easier to license a clip for your movie than
it would be to shoot something of your own. It can be done and it
may not cost much, but it won’t be easier.
Doesn't hurt to ask permission, but, who do I ask? If a show airs on TBS, does that mean that I need to contact TBS to ask for permission? How do I find out who owns the copywrite, and who can give me the thumbs-up to use their TV show?

I’ve never heard of that show but a quick search on line and I
found that srbclarke is correct. “Saved by the Bell” was produced
by Peter Engle Productions and NBC Productions. NBC Universal
Television Distribution is the distributor. All distributors have
a licensing division. That’s who you ask.
 
A few things:

First - it’s copyright. A little peeve of mine.

Got it. I need to put the picture in my head that it's not copying something that's written, but the right to copy something.

I’ve never heard of that show but a quick search on line and I
found that srbclarke is correct. “Saved by the Bell” was produced
by Peter Engle Productions and NBC Productions. NBC Universal
Television Distribution is the distributor. All distributors have
a licensing division. That’s who you ask.

Okay, so I look for whoever is the distributor of whichever show I'd like to use. I'm expecting to not get anywhere, but I guess it's worth a few phone calls. I got permission to use PBR and Colt 45 with barely a phone call and an email.

Yeah, the fact that you haven't heard of the show is kinda the point. It's a niche market my movie is targeted for, and within this age-group/sub-culture, this show is classic, and the character Zach Morris is practically iconic. So, it's kind-of an in-joke that only my target audience will get.

Thanks for the help.
 
TV clip clearance is hard. You need permission from the owner of the show (Production Co). Depending on their agreements you MAY need permission from all actors shown or heard in the clip, and permission for any music heard in the clip. Clip clearances can cost SOooo much money that even studio productions often fake it or recreate it.
 
Back
Top