Ok, I did search and if this is answered (and I'm sure it's got to be) I just can't find it.

So I'm sorry for posting this if it already exists.

I'm shooting a seminar a client is doing that he wants to sell. It's a business consulting seminar.

In his presentation he uses clips from a movie (Simon Birch). He'd like those to be in the product we make for him.

Who in the world do I start asking about this and is there any chance in the world that we'll be able to get permission?

He's willing to pay a fee (if he deems it reasonable).

Thanks for any help!

you go down to your local video rental store - find it - see who has copyright or who is distributing (hollywood pictures ?? ) .. start there ...

Find out from IMDB what studio producd Simon Birch. Then you have to contact the corporate office and ask permission. I hate to tell you but in all likelihood they will not give it. Large corporate copyright owners virtually never license their materials to individuals or small businesses. They only do so when big money is involved.

Your friend also might want to obtain a legal opinion as to whether what he's doing is fair use, and if so he wouldn't need permisison at all.