DVD sales are skyrocketing, based in large part upon the release of boxed sets of entire seasons of TV shows, or old movies supplemented with a range of extras. With so much money to be made from DVD sales, entertainment companies need to make sure they have secured all the necessary copyrights to release these works in the DVD format.

Difficulty often arises, however, because the ability to create and disseminate a TV show in the DVD format can hinge upon the copyrights secured in the original agreements when the series or work was first produced. Obtaining the necessary consent or waiver can help avoid lengthy and expensive litigation over the use of the work, and even though there will be costs involved, the certainty and goodwill may well be worthwhile.

By clarifying the rights granted, anticipating the unknown and obtaining consents, entertainment companies can protect valuable rights to their programs and exploit evolving technology effectively, even when there is no way to know exactly what the future holds.

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