So a writer-director-actor whose movies I've reviewed at the Tomb contacted me today about quoting said reviews in a book he's writing about how NOT to make movies. Actually it was his friend/co-writer that sent me the email, but the point is that they want to use excerpts from the reviews to show just how much some people hated the man's "creations" as a self-deprecating thing. I was told I'd get a credit in the book, including a plug for the site. I jumped at the chance to see anything I'd written put into a publication, but my fiancee made the mention afterward that I should be getting some kind of financial payment for the use of my reviews and not let myself be "taken advantage of". I figured that the plug for the website and seeing my opinions in print were more than enough for me (with a copy of the book thrown in once it's off the presses, of course), but she's pretty firm on thinking I should be getting paid for this.
What does everybody think? Should I just be happy that I was approached at all about letting them use my material and enjoy whatever publicity the site might get from it, or do I try to get some green out of it instead? :question:
I believe that unless you had your reviews copyrighted, that as long as they give you credit they don't have to pay you anything. I could be wrong but I think that is the case. It's nice they contacted you and even offered to give you a plug as well as a copy of the book.
All the reviews on the site are copyrighted at the bottom of each page. I didn't used to put up a copyright notice, but started doing so since 2006. The notice pretty much just states that none of the reviews, in part or in whole, can be used without the approval of both the writer and website owner. Of course, I already gave written/emailed consent to use the material requested, so that probably brings up a whole other batch of "we have a written contract now" arguments that, even if I tried to get some kind of compensation out of the deal, have likely dug me into some kind of hole I'm sure. Oh well, like I said before, I'm just happy to see anything I've done being put to paper. The money could've been a nice help right now though... :lookingup:
Anubis' reviews are copyrighted, though I'm sure their not registered (which is just a formality). They could still publish short quotes of your reviews and claim it's fair use for the purpose of commentary or criticism without your permission. They're probably right, but it's always arguable, and I'm sure they wouldn't want a legal hassle if you challenged them.
I imagine (purely a guess and not based on experience) that the credit and the plug would probably be a standard arrangement for this type of use. I doubt this book is slated to be a huge New York Times bestseller, so there's probably not much money to be squeezed out of them.
It sounds like your first impression was that you were flattered and happy about the arrangement. I'd trust that, personally.
Personally, I wouldn't ask them for any money.
Like Rev. said, this book probably won't be a huge seller so I'd be happy with the credit and the site plug.
If you try to pursue the money route, they will probably just say F-you and drop you from the project completely.
Mention us. :thumbup:
Put us all in a review...
They are being very polite by asking you for permission beforehand. Doing so is a good way to prevent possible problems, but it also shows a friendly consideration for you. Using excerpts from your reviews, depending on the length, should be fair use anyway.
I would definitely say "Yes." Over the years, I've had quite a few companies ask to use the reviews here (in their entirety) with credit and a link. Those I decline, but I always point out that using a snippet, that 10% general guideline, is fair use and perfectly acceptable. When asked for permission to use just small pieces, like your situation here, I pretty much say yes. The times I do say no, it is usually because I feel the endeavor could be reflect unfavorably on the site - like a extreme gorehound magazine, or a website with lots of foul language.
Should only ask for money if the book was being written by Michael Bay or someone like that..
Thanks gents. You've confirmed my feelings on the matter. Like I said, I was just happy they wanted to use my reviews in the first place. Considering what's been said about the Fair Use Laws and such, you're also right that they were considerate to even ask first when they could've gone ahead with it anyway with or without my say so. My fiancee was just looking out for me and right now any money could've been useful. Thanks again folks! :thumbup:
Congratulations!