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Copyright Laws? Can A Private Club Show Movies With No Formal Consent Without Getting In Trouble?
August 31st, 2009 | 
Author: Do private clubs such as a moose lodge need consent to show a hollywood released movie? Would this same club get in trouble for public use of video game consoles such as Xbox, PS2/ PS3?
Written by Hollywood Movie Reviews
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This is a very hot legal issue right now. The answer is not entirely clear. Here are some guidelines: if you are charging admission you are likely to get in trouble. If it’s completely free and fewer than say 30 people or so attend, then you are probably safe.
Here’s where it gets tricky: If you are using the screenings or video games to make money in a way other than through charging admission, you may find yourself in hotwater. Are you getting any ad revenue associated with screening movies? Do you use movie night to entice membership in your club which requires dues? I have heard of gyms being sued for using copyrighted music during paid exercise classes.
Based on your description, I think you’re safe. I doubt many people would conclude that primary benefit of joining the moose lodge and paying dues is to watch free movies. But, to be on the safe side, make sure to dissacoiate any revenue from the use of copyrighted material.
Technically yes, you are violating copywrite law by showing a Hollywood movie. Just like wedding DJ’s are violating copyrite laws by playing music. The chances of getting caught are small, but it does happen.
As long as you’re not making a profit by showing the movie, I think it’s okay.
Take the Super Bowl. You can’t have a function at your church called, “Super Bowl Party.” It’s got to be generic like, “Big Game Day Party.” They even tell people they can’t have a TV bigger than say, 40 inches.