Discussion:
This is a question from Ripon College, Wisconsin. I run movie nights in my fraternity, and I was recently told by the administration that I was not allowed to put the movie titles on the posters around campus advertising our free movie night. They said it was a violation of copyright laws. I think since the movies are legally bought and owned, we aren't charging anyone, and we are a non-profit organization there should be no problem. Is it legal or not???
Answer:
Not legal. The copyright notice on all movies clearly states the the movie is for private use only and not for public viewing. Even though you do not charge admission, your free movie nights are technically a violation of the copyright. All it would take is one unhappy non paying customer to have the wrath of a movie studio legal team sending you sternly worded cease and desist letters.
Answer:
One good thing though, because you are non-profit and because you are usually (I am assuming) showing movies that are for sale over the counter, you may find that obtaining permission to show the movies is gratis. People assume a lot regarding the "big" guys in Movie and Music, however they do have a soft side.