: Re: Quoting lyrics in a book of film criticism I'm writing a book of film criticism, in which I refer to lyrics from the soundtrack as a way to empathise the narrative. Am I required to obtain

@Welton431

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I am not a lawyer, so please get competent legal counsel if other measures do not suffice.

What you are doing probably falls under the heading of "fair use," (for criticism), which is a defense against copyright infringement. Nevertheless, it would be wise to approach the copyright holder, and get their "blessing" (or at least acquiescence) to your own work.

There are several possible replies. 1) The copyright holder grants permission. It is fair use, after all, and they may benefit financially from a "debate" about their film. 2) The copyright holder wants a small financial consideration, basically a "tribute" or acknowledgement of their copyright. That's usually worth paying to avoid legal hassles. 3) The copyright holder refuses to give permission under any circumstances. Here, you need to see a lawyer,even if you are in the right. In that case, the company will fight your use, whether or not it has merit. So "forewarned is forearmed."

Two Live Crew tried to get permission to do a parody of Roy Orbison's "Pretty Woman." The copyright holder refused, and the case went all the way to the Supreme Court before the copyright holder relented. On the other hand, Crew's experience made other copyright holders more willing to "cut a deal."

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