The Documentary Filmmakers Statement of Best Practices is great, but does it actually carry any weight with broadcasters and insurance companies?
It certainly does carry weight! The Statement has provoked dramatic change in the industry since it was released in November 2005. PBS and ITVS have used the Statement to release programs, and so have cable casters including IFC. All four of the national errors and omissions insurers now issue fair use coverage, if a lawyer says that the use is within the terms of the Statement. As more gatekeepers endorse the statement, the stronger the statement becomes. Practice makes practice. Practice changes practice. Click here to read the latest developments in fair use.
