The Documentary Life Rights Option and Purchase Agreement is an agreement to secure the Option and then Purchase the personal Story Rights of a natural person for use in a Documentary Series of Feature or Episodic Series.

This contract is a legal document that details the terms and conditions between the Intellectual Property Owner and the Filmmaker.

It covers the essential elements of the relationship such as:

  • Date of Recording
  • Ownership Rights
  • Release Date
  • Name of Production
  • Use Rights of Recording
  • And More.

This agreement has two components, the Life Rights Option and Purchase. This Life Rights Agreement is specifically drafted, by real entertainment and media attorneys to be able to secure life rights for the purpose of making a documentary.  It includes all the essential terms and conditions including compensation, term, and more.

Although there are times documentaries can be made without securing life rights, it is good practice to get the life rights when creating a bio documentary or including someone’s life story within a documentary.

Having the right contracts in place for any production is essential and the only way to be able to secure your production against future issues.  A good contract also helps build good relationships from the beginning so all parties understand their rights and responsibilities, duties, and obligations.

Other names for this Document:

Documentary Life Rights Option and Purchase Contract, Life Rights Agreement, Life Story Rights Agreement, Life Rights Story Option.

Approximate time to complete contract:  4-5 Minutes

Single-Use Contract Unless Purchased with a Subscription

What is it?

The Documentary Life Rights Option and Purchase Agreement cover the essential contract terms between the Intellectual Property Owner and the Filmmaker.

This standard Documentary contract covers:

  • The Start Date of the Agreement
  • The name of the Documentary
  • The Release of Rights
  • The Use Rights of the Recording, including promotion and advertising rights.
  • The Rights and Responsibilities of the Parties
  • Work-For-Hire Language
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Issues, including Venue & Choice of Law

How does it work?

Use this document to explain the relationship between the Intellectual Property Owner and the Filmmaker.

Some things needed to build your custom Documentary Life Rights Option and Purchase Agreement:

  • Names of the Parties
  • Addresses of the Parties
  • Emails of the Parties
  • Name of the Production
  • Dates of Recording
  • State for Venue and Choice Provisions

Once you have completed drafting the Documentary Life Rights Option and Purchase Agreement, you will be able to save to edit further, download a PDF or send to the other party for electronic signature.