When to release a trailer for a indie feature film?Copyright needed?Whats the process

Clint Nitkiewiz Hernandez

Clint Nitkiewiz Hernandez

Well-known member
What is what most big budget, or films known to be in theatres, say Batman, Ironman etc, what is their procedure for releasing their trailers to the public regarding copyright, etc. I only try to compare because I treat my film as if its a big film, and will have theatrical distribution, even though if it may not I still want to do things correctly from the start.

Heres the deal, I want to release a teaser for my feature film which is almost wrapping up production,

So do I have to send a copy of the trailer on dvd to the copyright office in washington? Do I have to put a disclaimer on the trailer if it will be seen online?

Someone can easily see my trailer, then steal either the concept, idea, story, etc, etc.

My screenplay is copywritten by the WGA, is that good enough for all trailers or anything related to the Picture?

Do I need a different copyright for each trailer version; say a 30 second spot, 2 minute trailer, 1 minute teaser, etc, etc? Or should I just wait until the feature is cut to realease the first trailer, copyright the entire film, then I wont have to copyright the trailers?

Thanks!
 
Dont forget, your copywrite already exists the moment your creation is completed. The copywrite office simply registers the work. This can be used to back up cases of infringement.

I don't think I would register a trailer.

-Bill
 
What you should do is this. Send in your script to the copyright office in DC. That's when it's "officially" copywritten, having it registered at the WGA does not mean its copyrighted.

Then, after your film is complete, send in the entire film to be copyrighted. Ofcourse the Film will be an added item to your previously copyrighted screenplay. I suggest you visit the Copyright office website. But, if you copyright your screenplay, there's no need to copyright the Trailers. http://www.copyright.gov/
 
It's important to note that nothing on Earth can guarantee someone won't rip off your idea. Ideas, by and large, can't be copyrighted. ("Copywritten" refers to writing copy, like a script.) If you're REALLY worried about somebody beating you to the punch, then don't let ANYONE see your trailer. Don't put it online. Send it to potential distributors ONLY when your movie is finished and ready to sell.

And if your feature film is just wrapping production, it's a long way from being ready to sell.

Good luck!
 
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