Bill Mecca
June 3rd, 2009, 09:20 AM
Here's the situation: I was hired by a National organization to produce a video on what the organization is all about, how it started, and benefits to its members. I had creative control, I came up with the name of the show, wrote the script (based on info they gave me) was the on-camera talent, shot, edited, the whole 9 yards.
Now that it's 99.9% complete they are thinking they want to turn it into a series of programs, using the same name but focusing on different issues for their members. They've raised the question of who owns the name and concept. The show is a news format so the concept is pretty open, but what about the Title? do they own it or do I? If I do, do I need to license it to them? that could be included in any future production agreements, but what if new leadership there decides they want a different Production company to take it over?
Or am I just thinking too much? (which has been known to happen)
and yes I will be speaking with an attorney, just want to get some thoughts from my video brethren.
Now that it's 99.9% complete they are thinking they want to turn it into a series of programs, using the same name but focusing on different issues for their members. They've raised the question of who owns the name and concept. The show is a news format so the concept is pretty open, but what about the Title? do they own it or do I? If I do, do I need to license it to them? that could be included in any future production agreements, but what if new leadership there decides they want a different Production company to take it over?
Or am I just thinking too much? (which has been known to happen)
and yes I will be speaking with an attorney, just want to get some thoughts from my video brethren.