I happened upon this show more times than I'd care to admit, and all I could think is how do they handle all the legal issues that surely must come up during production. A few of the things: location releases. How do they get permission to film in bars/restaurants. I'm assuming lots of money exchange hands, followed by a ream of paperwork to sign.

How about property damage? I saw someone get shoved into a parked vehicle, clearly damaging that vehicle.

Also when film in some restaurants, the name of the place s sometimes clearly viewable, even places like Subway and so on.

Jonathan

Some comments about that show here:
http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/awake-dark/76735-cheaters-low-brow-tv-show-dallas.html

Thanks Pete. Interesting that someone on that discussion was a camera operator for the show. The stories that crew must have....but I'm sure they are all sworn to secrecy.

Jonathan

Remember there is very little "Real" in Reality TV.

I happened upon this show more times than I'd care to admit, and all I could think is how do they handle all the legal issues that surely must come up during production. A few of the things: location releases. How do they get permission to film in bars/restaurants. I'm assuming lots of money exchange hands, followed by a ream of paperwork to sign.

How about property damage? I saw someone get shoved into a parked vehicle, clearly damaging that vehicle.

Also when film in some restaurants, the name of the place s sometimes clearly viewable, even places like Subway and so on.

Jonathan

How do they get permission? They ask, simple as that. Money might change hands, but not always. You'd be amazed at the cooperation a polite request can create. Many major firms have entire departments dedicated to product placement issues such as their trademarks and logos appearing on-screen. And serious production companies carry adequate levels of liability insurance to cover the possible property damage.

If I was a restaurant owner I would actually pay to be on TV... think about it, it's free advertising!

Or when the cast and crew barge in on someones home, apartment, private property....it's got to be a legal nightmare!

I was a lead camera operator on that show for 2 years. All i will say is that, busting into a place with a crowd of people is extremely dangerous. I've gone home covered in food, beer and glass.

Thanks Corey,

I'm just guessing but I am sure the show had pretty good health benefits and workers comp :-}

JL

Yep Corey, that would've made it hard to white balance.

Cheers.