Copyrighted Filming Techniques
The first Matrix film had the bullet time sequence, and people will most likely associate that technique with the movie.
Research into bullet time shows that it was used long before The Matrix (although it was most likely called something else), and the name was also used in the video game Max Payne (the name is the same, but the technique might be different).
From the wiki link, it states:
The term "bullet time" is a registered trademark of Warner Bros., formally established in March 2005, in connection with the video game The Matrix Online.
Can a studio copyright or hold ownership over any filming technique?
Does this mean if I want to use this technique in my own movie and I would have to pay WB money before doing it?
Best Answer
I'm a patent agent (not practicing).
The comment about "bullet time" being a name that you have to license is spot on. There's nothing stopping you from copying the technique in your movie, as long as you don't call it "bullet time."
That said: if the technique is implemented in software, then the method of doing it might be patented, so that anyone else creating that effect would be suspected of using the patented method. That would apply to the maker of the software, not to the ultimate consumer.
The problem with Warner having a method patent (I'm not saying they do) is: let's say some other video game tools maker offers this same effect, without using the forbidden name. Now Warner has to sue them just to look at their source code, or else convince a judge that there is no possible way to implement it without infringing. Either is a tough sell.
Of course, big companies are bullies, and they might demand you take a license from them, even knowing that they have no case, because you can't afford a lawyer.
Patents are public (once they're issued), so you can always search the USPTO database for relevant patents, if you're really paranoid. However, I wouldn't if I were you. "Willful infringement" can triple the damages if it really came to that.
Pictures about "Copyrighted Filming Techniques"
What are the 4 types of copyright?
\xab Back to FAQs What are the different types of copyright?- Public Performing Right. The exclusive right of the copyright owner, granted by the U.S. Copyright Law, to authorize the performance or transmission of the work in public.
- Public Performance License. ...
- Reproduction Right. ...
- Mechanical License. ...
- Synchronization License.
Can film be protected under copyright?
Copyright protection is available only to the cinematograph film including the sound track. The cine artists who act in the film are not protected by copyright law for their acting. The actors or performers in the film are conferred certain special rights called Performer's Rights, see s.What are the 3 main Principle styles of film?
There are three main types of films. Realism, Classical, and Formalism.How do I get permission to use copyrighted film?
In general, the permissions process involves a simple five-step procedure:Fair Use: Legally Use Movie Clips \u0026 Copyrighted Material In Your YouTube Videos
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Images: Till Daling, Terje Sollie, Pixabay, Martin Lopez