fender967

Fairly straightforward question: Is there any law that would prohibit someone from taking a funny line of dialogue from a movie or tv show and making a shirt with those words on it? I see them all the time on Busted Tees and such, doesn't seem like it would be against any rules but just want to make sure.

Also, how about quotes? Either famous quotes or just quotes from a comedy routine or something?

 

Solmu

Short version: yes, there is. Long version: it's complicated, talk to a lawyer.

__________________
Ceci n'est pas une autographe.

 

ronr76

Slogans would fall under Trademark law, not copyright.

Unless a tv or movie slogan is trademarked, which most aren't then you should be ok.

 

Rodney

Quote: Originally Posted by ronr76 Slogans would fall under Trademark law, not copyright. Unless a tv or movie slogan is trademarked, which most aren't then you should be ok.

Actually, TV and movie scripts are protected by copyright. The whole work is protected.

So while "you should be OK" sounds like a logical answer, if the studios decided to push it, he could get sued.

As Solmu said, it's a complicated issue, and if you really want to move forward safely, you should talk to an intellectual property rights attorney. We really can't give out legal advice here.

__________________
Rodney Blackwell - We're selling our 100% Natural Extravaganza T-Shirt For Charity!
PrinterListings.com: a place find, rate, and review custom t-shirt printing businesses