Photo Credit: resources.12stone.com
Nowadays it seems like a new blockbuster is releasing every weekend. But did you know the amount of IP that plays a role in bringing your favorite movies to the silver screen?
To start with, a copyright covers music, sounds, books, plays, etc. A copyright is required for the owners of creative works to secure rights to reproduce and distribute their work. This allows their original ideas to be protected in the free market. This also covers the soundtrack and any sound effects for the film.
A copyright owner may license his/her work via a distribution deal to a filmmaker. This is what allows popular titles like Jurassic World, Gone Girl, or Indiana Jones to start from mere ideas to become the beloved movies and multi-series movies you love. The license fee allows the cast and crew who worked tirelessly on the film from start to finish, to receive just compensation.
Next, trademarks aren’t just limited to items and businesses, they also help protect the movie’s brand by deterring people from misuse. Movies like Star Wars have grown beyond just a film and into an “empire” (no pun intended). Additionally, a film wanting to use an item in product placement requires a license to use, such as Iron Man and the use of Audi or Wilson volleyballs in Castaway. Did you know the Empire State Building is a trademarked icon requiring a license for use? These licensors reap the benefits and get paid for the use of their products.
Finally, films are made using patented technology. Can you believe the first moving picture was made in the 19th century? The industry has seen changes made from color exposures to digital recording. The progression of technology is even apparent in powerhouse movie companies in the earliest Pixar movies to the most recent ones. As advances are made, soon the line between actors and special effects will be blurred. Movies have improved the way we consume movies and have come a long way from the technicolor movie days of The Wizard of Oz, to 4D visual experiences.
Without copyrights, trademarks, and patents, movies would not be the same. Next time you curl up with your loved ones and some popcorn, remember how much IP played a role in the film industry!
Article by Carissa Chow