COPYRIGHT LICENSING IN THE FILM INDUSTRY

AUTHOR – ANLIN FRANCIS, STUDENT AT AMITY UNIVERSITY, NOIDA

BEST CITATION – ANLIN FRANCIS, COPYRIGHT LICENSING IN THE FILM INDUSTRY, ILE MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL, 4 (2) OF 2025, PG. 92-100, APIS – 3920-0007 | ISSN – 2583-7230.

ABSTRACT

Copyright licensing is a fundamental component of the legal and financial structure of the film industry, which depends on the protection and monetization of creative output. With an emphasis on how rights are distributed and used across several platforms, such as movie theatres, television, and digital streaming services, this essay examines the nature, extent, and legal ramifications of copyright licensing in the film industry. It covers the difficulties presented by piracy, unapproved distribution, and developing digital technologies in addition to analysing the various licensing types—exclusive, non-exclusive, and compulsory. The article highlights the necessity of strong licensing procedures that adjust to the industry’s quick technical improvements, guaranteeing both creative protection and commercial viability, by analyzing both national and international legal frameworks. In the film industry, copyright licensing is essential since it regulates the permissible use, dissemination, and commercialization of artistic works. This essay examines the intricacies and importance of copyright licensing in the film industry, emphasizing how it safeguards intellectual property rights and makes money through a range of licensing models, including international distribution, digital streaming, theatrical, and broadcast. It also explores the difficulties that filmmakers encounter, such as copyright violations, piracy, and negotiating reasonable license conditions. As digital platforms have grown in popularity, licensing regimes have changed, bringing with them new legal considerations and opportunities for content producers and distributors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the legal underpinnings of copyright in motion pictures, the composition of license contracts, and the consequences for all parties involved in the value chain. In an increasingly globalized and digital entertainment scene, it is critical to comprehend copyright licensing to ensure creative freedom, financial sustainability, and the ethical consumption of cinematic content.

Keywords: Copyright, Licensing, Act, Cinematograph, Video