Author Archives: Gordon Firemark

AI Copyright Gets Cheesy, Podcasters Win Fair Use, and Spotify Dodges Royalties — Episode 177 of Entertainment Law Update:

Our latest episode is now live over at EntetainmentLawUpdate.com/177 This episode dives into the latest legal battles shaping the entertainment industry. We explore how an AI-generated artwork—featuring none other than a slice of American cheese—became the first of its kind to receive copyright protection. Meanwhile, podcasters scored a major fair use victory at the Copyright… Continue Reading

The Power of Trademark Registration: Protect Your Brand and Elevate Your Business

In today’s competitive marketplace, your brand is one of your most valuable assets. It represents your reputation, sets you apart from competitors, and creates trust with your audience. Whether you’re a podcaster, entrepreneur, or creative professional, protecting your brand with a registered trademark is essential to securing your business’s future. What is a Trademark, and… Continue Reading

Entertainment Law 101: Why Every Creative Professional Needs Legal Backup

The Harsh Truth: No Matter How Talented You Are, Creativity Alone Won’t Protect You You pour your heart and soul into your work. Whether you’re a filmmaker, musician, screenwriter, or content creator, your art is your passion—and your livelihood. But here’s the harsh reality: the entertainment industry isn’t just about talent. It’s a business. And… Continue Reading

Podcast Guest Release Contracts: Protecting Podcasters and Guests Alike

Podcasting has become a powerful medium for storytelling, education, and entertainment. Whether you’re hosting an interview-based show or featuring occasional guests, having a Podcast Guest Release Agreement is essential. This legal document ensures clarity between podcasters and their guests, protecting both parties and allowing the content to be used as intended without legal complications. What… Continue Reading

The Ultimate Guide to Trademarking Your Course or Membership

The Ultimate Guide to Trademarking Your Course or Membership

If you’re a course creator, you’ve poured countless hours into designing, refining, and marketing your online course. Your curriculum isn’t just a product—it’s your intellectual property, your brand, and your livelihood. But what happens if someone else decides to capitalize on your hard work? Enter trademarking. In this blog post, we’ll break down why trademarking… Continue Reading

Actor’s Test Option Contracts: A Key Tool in Casting for Film, Television, and Theatre

In the fast-paced world of entertainment, finding the right actor for a project is crucial. For producers and casting directors, an Actor’s Test Option Contract is a valuable tool that balances the need to audition talent thoroughly with the practicalities of securing an actor’s commitment to a potential role. These contracts are particularly common in… Continue Reading

Understanding the Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) for Film and Theatre Financing

Raising funds for a film or theatrical production often requires navigating complex financial and legal landscapes. For producers seeking investment from private individuals or entities, a Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) is an essential tool. This document not only provides potential investors with detailed information about the project and its financial risks but also ensures compliance… Continue Reading

MUSICARES, Grammys, others offering help to music industry workers affected by L.A. Wildfires

(Not affected? Please Donate) MusiCares, the philanthropic arm of the Recording Academy, has launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to support music professionals affected by the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area. They have pledged an initial $1 million, which has been distributed to provide immediate assistance to those in need. The organization… Continue Reading

Podcast Guest Release Contracts: Protecting Podcasters and Guests Alike

Podcast Guest Release Contracts: Protecting Podcasters and Guests Alike

Podcasting has become a powerful medium for storytelling, education, and entertainment. Whether you’re hosting an interview-based show or featuring occasional guests, having a Podcast Guest Release Agreement is essential. This legal document ensures clarity between podcasters and their guests, protecting both parties and allowing the content to be used as intended without legal complications. What… Continue Reading

Find us on Google+