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A Film Copyright Notice is required whenever a motion picture or audiovisual work is published or distributed to protect the creator's rights under U.S. copyright law. While not mandatory since 1989, the notice serves as a deterrent to infringement and prevents defendants from claiming innocent infringement. It typically appears in the film credits and any physical or digital distribution materials. The notice must comply with U.S. Copyright Act specifications and may include additional information for international protection under the Berne Convention.
