Copyright Question

[Brickhouse]

If you refrence something as a joke, do you need permission?

For example, in the comercial for Funny People, Jonah Hill says "I just saw Harry Potter. That kid's getting old. Is he trying to get his phD in magic?" or something along those lines. Did they have to get permission to use that joke?

Thanks

 

[Sad Max]

Making reference to something that is in the public view is permissible. Using clips, etc isn't.

If the reference is disparaging, you could potentially open yourself up to trouble. But then again, anyone can sue anyone else for anything, any time, anyway.

 

[Brickhouse]

so if i were to say "he looks like an umpa-loompa", or something along those lines, i would be okay?

Thanks!

 

[Sad Max]

Based upon established usage, I'd guess that you would be okay.