Subsidiary Rights
Candlefocus EditorThe purpose of subsidiary rights is to enable authors and creators to achieve maximum compensation for their works. Subsidiary rights can be divided broadly into three categories: reprint, film, and merchandise rights.
Reprint rights are rights to acquire a book, manuscript, or artwork in a pre-existing format. These rights may be further divided into foreign rights and domestic rights. Foreign rights include authorized translations of works into foreign languages, as well as the granting of permission to publishers, in foreign countries, to print, publish, or distribute a work. Domestic reprint rights refer to the allowing of a book or artwork to be printed or reprinted domestically.
Film rights refer to the licensing of rights to produce a motion picture based on a particular artwork. Much like reprint rights, film rights can also be divided into foreign and domestic rights. Finally, merchandise rights refer to the making of merchandise based on an artwork, such as creating toys, posters, and art prints.
Subsidiary rights are an important component of an artist or author's income. For some authors and creators, the sale of subsidiary rights can make the difference between making a living from their work, or making nothing at all. Consequently, subsidiary rights are an important component of literary and artistic work, as they enable authors to earn more and thus find more representation for their work.
In order to license subsidiary rights, authors and artists must often be represented by a literary agent, or attorney. These representatives will handle the marketing, negotiating, and administrative aspects of subsidiary rights transactions. They will also work to ensure that their clients receive the best deals possible for their works. Additionally, representatives will ensure that the rights cover an appropriate amount of time, and that their clients’ rights are protected.
Overall, subsidiary rights are an integral part of the artistic world. By allowing authors to earn more money from their works, they are ensuring that works are seen and heard by more people around the world. Furthermore, they help authors and artists to have more control over their works and to earn more money. For these reasons, it is important to explore the possibilities of subsidiary rights when creating or licensing a work.