 |
Theatrical vs. Non-Theatrical
The easiest way to obtain legal rights to
screen a film is securing rights through a non-theatrical distributor
or broker. They carry most of the major studio titles in DVD format.
Criterion Pictures and Swank Motion Pictures are the two largest
non-theatrical film brokers in the US. The average price for these
films are $300-$400 each for one showing. If you charge admission,
they will require up to a 50% cut of your gate. Non-Theatrical means
you're not allowed to advertise your event outside your organization.
That means no local newspaper.
Note: Whether you charge admission
or not, you are still legally responsible for securing film rights.
The better way to secure legal screening
rights is to go theatrical. The upsides are the ability to advertise
your event and, in some cases, better prices. If your venue uses
DVD as the format, most major film studios still won't offer a theatrical
license for this format. If you're using 35mm, then you're good
to go.
The OCN is currently lobbying with
the major film studios to begin offering theatrical rights for DVD
format. In the meantime, the best option is to license through a
non-theatrical distributor. We'll keep you posted on theatrical
DVD availability.
|
|
|
|
