Cinema Law: What Is In the Public Domain?

By Kristen Spanier
URL: http://www.moviemaker.com/blog/item/cinema_law_literature_in_the_public_domain_20090615/
Q: Can you explain to me the legalities surrounding “public domain,” specifically in regards to literature? My dream project is a reinterpretation of a classic Shakespeare story. Do I need to be granted permission to proceed with such a project?

A: The short answer to your question is NO. You do not need to obtain permission to proceed with a project based on one of William Shakespeare’s works. However, let me talk a little about the legalities surrounding public works and copyright law.