H
National Lawyers Guild
NYWIFT
NYCANNABAR
Soho House
Fractured Atlas

Participant and Appearance Releases

Most filmmakers know that they need to get a signed "release" from participants in their films. A release is a signed document by a person appearing in the film, which gives the filmmaker permission to use that person's likeness in the film. Without a properly executed release, the filmmaker bears the risk that a participant may later claim that he or she did not consent to the broadcast of their image on film, and demand compensation that you had not budgeted for, or credits that you are unable to grant.

Different situations call for different types of releases, in varying degrees of detail. Examples of releases commonly used in filmmaking include:

  • Appearance Release
  • Participant Release
  • Depiction Release
  • Still Photo Release
  • Film Clip License
  • Still Photo/Artwork Release
  • Submission Release
  • Extra/Minor Release
  • Quitclaim Release
  • Location Release

HRBEKKunstler.  Where Art and Business Meet.™

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"Deborah is smart, pragmatic and forthright" Townes, Filmmaker.
★★★★★
"Deborah has the unique ability to present an 'ask' in a way that is undeniably clear and justified. She has fundamentally changed the way I approach my valuation in the industry by removing the 'cringe factor' from discussions around compensation. She brings a charming touch of grace to negotiations representing my company's value and supporting its reputation while simultaneously securing fair and equitable compensation. Don, TV Producer / Showrunner.
★★★★★
"Deborah made a confusing and painful process understandable and linear. We could not have asked for a better lawyer." Podcast Production Team.
★★★★★
"Deborah makes reviewing legal documents so easy. I know she always has my best interests at heart. It's a pleasure working with her." Melissa, Executive Director of artist not-for-profit organization.
★★★★★
"Deborah is simply amazing. She is a master at protecting her clients. She will protect you and always have your back. I am so lucky to have found her." Warren, TV Series Writer & Creator.