Cinema Law: Legal Issues for Docs

By Randy Whatoff
URL: http://www.moviemaker.com/blog/item/cinema_law_documentary_permission_release_forms_20090601/
Q: I am currently developing a documentary about life in a Section 8 apartment complex in our neighborhood. Beyond obvious things like releases from those who appear on camera, what other legal issues (short of defamatory issues) should I consider? For example, do I need permission from the apartment complex owner to film a tenant in his or her apartment? Do I need permission to film exterior of the complex (e.g., as tenants walk into the building, etc.)? I know permission is always better, but it may constrain the ability to tell the story if asked for (e.g., intimidation by owners of the participating tenants, etc.).