Chain of title: the paperwork distributors ask for

Before a distributor or streamer takes your film, and before an insurer writes errors and omissions coverage, someone will ask for your chain of title. It is the set of documents that shows you own every right needed to show the film.

The core documents

An option and purchase agreement if the film is based on a book or someone else’s script. Writer agreements and a certificate of authorship from every writer. Life rights agreements for real people portrayed. Releases from cast, interviewees and locations.

The common gaps

Music is the biggest one: every track needs a license for both the song and the recording. Archival clips often contain music or people that need separate clearance. Co-writers who left the project without a written agreement are another frequent problem.

Start early

Getting a signature during production takes minutes. Finding a former crew member two years later can take weeks. Sign as you go and keep everything in one folder.