The course introduces students to the legal aspects of filmmaking. Using the production cycle as a road map (from fundraising and marketing to insurance and distribution), we’ll explore applicable substantive law (e.g., fair use, free speech, privacy), consider how relationships among principals are structured (e.g., producers, directors, talent, investors), analyze the main types of contracts negotiated (e.g., licensing, services, distribution, investment deals), and investigate the kind of disputes that typically arise in the film production context (e.g., credit, ownership, payment). The goal of the class is to provide students with a working knowledge of relevant doctrines as well as insight into the ways film productions are structured and managed through contracts and risk analysis.
For details on class times, days of the week, instructors, and grading and exam details, please view the Michigan Law Class Schedule.