Writing a screenplay inspired by a true story? Penning the next fantasy epic? Inventing alternative histories? This workshop covers potential sticky situations that may arise when adapting real events or commercial titles for the big screen. Attorneys from CBS and Showtime will lend their expertise regarding defamation, clearances, and trade infringement.

Whether it's a biopic or science fiction, a screenplay needs to be combed over for potential legal conflicts. Did a President really pass that controversial law? Is the story perhaps a little too inspired by Game of Thrones? Depicting real people and events, adapting a book, or writing stories closely related to popular titles needs to be handled with finesse and care.

About the Speaker:
Adriana Getz, Rights & Clearances at CBS Television Studios

Adriana Getz manages the rights’ clearance process for high-profile CBS Television Studios series such as Twilight Zone, Magnum P.I., Seal Team, Hawaii 5-0, and Nancy Drew.  She works closely with the screenwriters, physical production departments, post production, broadcast standards and practices, advertising, and distribution, from initial script outline to final cut to analyze and implement handling of copyright, trademark and other intellectual and personal rights use in CBS’ original content. 

Prior to joining CBS four years ago, Adriana was a rights and clearances consultant for clients such as NBC, MTV, Comedy Central, Bravo and @RadicalMedia.  Before that she worked in marketing and distribution at BBC America and United Artists. She started out as an agent’s assistant at William Morris.

These workshops are made possible, in part, from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Arts Commission; The City of Los Angeles, Department of Cultural Affairs; and the California Community Foundation.  Additional support provided by the California Arts Council.