WHAT IS A MOVIE LICENSE?

Anytime a movie is played to a public audience you must obtain written permission from the right's holder in the form of a Public Performance Movie License. In Canada, there are two major non-theatrical film distributors who we work with to obtain public licensing for our outdoor movies. Movie licensing is charged either as a flat rental, or as a percentage of ticket sales if admission is charged. 

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DO BACKYARD EVENTS REQUIRE A LICENSE?

The simple answer is NO. A private movie viewing with family and friends does not require a license. However, if this becomes a Neighbourhood Association event, then yes, you do need a license as you are publicly inviting families from your neighbourhood to attend.

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WHAT IS A PUBLIC PERFORMANCE?

A public performance is a showing of a movie outside of a private dwelling (house, apartment, cottage) or to an audience of people other than your family or friends.

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SCHOOLS & SEASONAL CAMPGROUNDS

Great news! You can purchase a one-time annual movie license for your venue. Show as many films as you want for one low price.

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DO WE NEED A LICENSE TO PLAY VIDEO GAMES?

At this time, our research shows there is NO license required to play video games.

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WHO DO WE CONTACT FOR OUR MOVIE LICENSE?

These two companies are the Canadian providers of movie licenses...click the logos to request your event movie license. Each company represents different production firms. A list of movie titles are available on each website.