“Work Made for Hire” Explained
“Work Made for Hire” Explained: Introduction The phrase “work made for hire” is commonly found in entertainment industry contracts—particularly with regard to independent contractors. Many would be surprised to learn that the phrase “work made for hire”, often unwittingly “borrowed” from American contracts, has no legal significance in Canadian law. Is there a Canadian […]
OIDMTC Application: Common Pitfalls To Avoid
OIDMTC Application: An Introduction Developers of digital media products in Ontario are likely familiar with the Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit (“OIDMTC”). Anyone who has applied to the OIDMTC is also likely aware that the processing and turnaround time for applications can be slow. Mistakes on an application can result in delays drawing out […]
Option Agreement – Ask a Lawyer Series
Option Agreement – Introduction A scriptwriter contacted us, asking what legal issues to be aware of when selling her completed scripts to film producers. Typically, a scriptwriter (let’s call her the “creator”) would enter into an option agreement with a producer interested in producing the film—unless, perhaps, the producer has the funds to produce it […]
“Shown In Canada”: CAVCO Reinterpretation
“Shown In Canada”: CAVCO Reinterpretation – Introduction Shown In Canada: CAVCO Reinterpretation – The Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit (“CPTC”) is available for productions that are shown exclusively through eligible online video services. Prior to March 6, 2017 such productions were considered ineligible. Background Before March 6, 2017 programming shown exclusively on online […]
How To Pitch to a Broadcaster
How to Pitch to a Broadcaster: Introduction How to Pitch to a Broadcaster? We know this can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know which steps to take. New things can be scary but learning about the subject is the first step in the direction of becoming comfortable with any new venture. Read on to […]
Quitclaims – A Creative Legal Tool
Introduction to Quitclaims Quitclaims are legal tools used by producers and creators to ensure that someone or something has given up certain rights in a property. For example, say you are a producer and a great script lands on your desk (or inbox). The creator tells you that it was previously developed by another producer […]
Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit (CPTC) – What Do You Need To Know?
Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit – What is it and Should You Apply? Funding the production of your Canadian television program or movie will likely include tax credits. In Canada, there are two general categories of film and television tax credits — Canadian content and production services tax credits. Both are intended to […]
