Adult Film/Distribution

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Expert: - 9/10/2010


Question
I have a friend who is a porn film director in Japan. He has recently asked me
to distribute his videos in the US. My company has never handled any product
in adult entertainment before, and we have no idea where to begin. Could
you please point me to the right direction? My friend is particularly interested
in VOD on mobile phones (e.g. Android) and for hotel chains. And do I simply
sell the rights to US buyers with one lump sum payment, or is it more
customary to get paid on a percentage of what they make? If so, what is a
typical percentage? Any other info that you can provide would be greatly
appreciated. Thank you.

Answer
Kenny,

The typical model is a percentage split, and 50% is not uncommon.  However, there are a number of US regulations, including 18 USC 2257, that you'll need to comply with, and you'd need to ensure that your friend in Japan has done so.  If not, you won't be successful in signing up any US-based customers.

If you'd like to discuss your situation further, feel free to contact me through my website at http://www.adultwebsitelawyer.com

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Dan Pepper

Expertise

Lawyer representing adult industry businesses and entertainers, and can answer questions related to:

How to start an adult film business or adult website LEGALLY.

What laws to be concerned about with getting into the adult entertainment industry.

What terms and conditions do you need on your adult website.

How to comply with 18 USC 2257 - the federal record keeping requirements.

What forms and agreements do you need for models and crew.

How to deal with copyright and trademark laws.

Before asking your question, I recommend visiting adultwebsitelawyer.com and requesting a copy of the Top 6 Considerations of Starting an Adult Entertainment Business. You may find your question answered there.

I ALSO DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM MALES INTERESTED IN STARRING IN ADULT FILMS.

Experience

I have been practicing law since 1994, and have represented numerous businesses and entertainers in the adult entertainment industry as the managing member of Pepper Law Group, LLC, at adultwebsitelawyer.com. My firm also operates 2257Sentry, one of the industry's leading 18 USC 2257 custodian record keeping services for producers of adult content.

Organizations
Free Speech Coalition, Frequent speaker at adult industry events including the Internext Expo and Exxxotica New York; interviewed in AVN Online; regular contributor to XBiz World

Publications
XBiz World AVN Online

Education/Credentials
BA in Political Science, JD (law degree)

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