Whats the bottom line about using COPYWRITTEN MATERIAL?
Using material that is already Copywritten (i.e.- Clips from Other Movies, Stock footage, Music, Images), is allowed for those with no budget, however as a guideline, we do not recommend this for various reasons: #1) This will restrict you from submitting your film into other festivals that may not accept copyright usage. #2) This will restrict you from making any profit from your film such as DVDs, On-Demand charges, etc. should you want to sell it. #3) You will not be able to file and own the full rights of your film. #4) In order to obtain the rights to use copywritten material, you would have to get written permission from the rightful owners, which can be expensive. Basically, down the line, using the Copywritten Material would be a headache to deal with. But if you just simply want to make your film for this event to show all your friends and family, go for it.
