Well… quiet a bit I would say or nothing at all! Depends
entirely on what is at stake!!
In the case of this particular post, I am referring to the
name- or title, as it is called- of Hindi feature films.
Today, “Sholay” is not just a word for us; it is an event.
HAHK or DDLJ are not four random letters but landmarks that defined a
generation.
Hence, the title of a film is the worst nightmare for its
makers. If at times, it springs out from the story itself, at times it takes
longer to get locked than the entire process of making the film!
It is true, that the success of any film has more to do with
its content. However, it is understandably tedious to want to watch or further
still fall in love with a film that’s called- “Mulaqaat Pyaar Karne Waalon ki”
or something even more morbid!!
Now having known for over years, about the extremely crucial
nature of a films title… this is how its sanctity has been treasured by the
film industry-
As per norm, a filmmaker registers the title of his feature
film with any or all of three primary associations, namely- The Indian Motion
Pictures Producers Association (IMPPA), Alliance of Motion Picture &
Television Producers (AMPTP) and the Film & Television Producers Guild!!
But the most horrendous part is… even if the maker has diligently
registered his precious title… he has no legal right to it!!!
Meaning, while someone may have taken the pains to conjure
up a title and register it with any or all of the above associations, I can
make my film, name it that and release it while he frets & fumes!!!
And this is because; all the associations above are NOT
statutory authorities and are mere trade associations. As such, owning titles
by registering them with these bodies has no legal validity at all!!
The right way to do it is by registering your title with the
Copyright Board, based in New Delhi.
Now the issue here is not of the legal way or the right way.
For an industry that prides itself on calling themselves a “family”, it is
hypocritical to be raising legal flags. The grounds at stake here are far more
moral than legal, especially when both the parties- the titleholder &
seeker- are aware of what is at stake and the very fact that tomorrow they
might well have switched sides of the ring!
It thus pains me to see the manner in which the “title
disputes”, now a regular feature of the movie business have been handled.
If someone has indeed registered their title you want or
even worse has already made a film by the name; leave aside the legal
ramifications of the issue. Firstly, initiate a correspondence. All players
involved here are aware of the volatile and random nature of the business and
will see your point and its validity. The effort needs to be taken by you if
you indeed feel the title precious to your story.
I would say, go even to the extent of presenting your
synopsis to the holder to make your point. Explain to them the importance of
the title to the project. If they are hesitant to release the title, why not
ask some suggestions too?
And similarly it is the duty of the titleholder to grant the
seeker an audience. To hear out his or her case and consider it. To not
insecurity cloud your judgment.
Such an exchange and mutual trust will only strengthen the
industry and make it a far more healthier and productive place than it
presently is. It is criminal for filmmakers to fabricate emotions for a living
but be unable to respect & handle emotions where they matter.
It cannot be a “family” just by calling it so. If it is
indeed that, then it needs no court or association. Conscience is good enough
an authority to regulate you.
If we indeed succeed in doing so… then this will the biggest
story every told. The biggest hit we ever experience.
Amen to that.
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