Legality of using video game footage in a film

[RockmanX3]

My assumption is that you need to ask permission first, but I've heard it's more of a gray area.

I'm writing a script that has a part where the main characters are playing video games and when I film it, I want to show some of the gameplay visible on a TV screen.

I know Screwattack, Angry Video Game Nerd, and Mega64 sell dvds with video game footage on it, although the majority of it is older games, with Mega64 using some newer game footage.

I looked up this online, but I don't know if it's accurate..
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Can_I_leg...tage_in_a_documentary_film_without_permission

Anyone know the fair use rules of video game footage in a film? Thanks.

 

[MichaelP]

You need to clear it.

Michael

 

[Chris Santucci]

Yeah, that's a "permissions" issue. Contact the company that owns the games and they'll probably give you a form to fill out ask you for specific informative material indicating exactly how you want to use the stuff, etc.

.

 

[RockmanX3]

Alright, thanks. It doesn't look like it'll be easy, but I'll give it a shot.