Family Movie Act

The Directors Guild of America (DGA) has come out strongly against legislation proposed by Congressman Lamar Smith that would allow the sale of software that can edit films to make 'Family-friendly' DVD versions.

The software (ClearPlay is the market leader) allows the removal of content deemed sexual, violent or somehow offensive.

But the DGA argues that this editing infringes the basic copyright of film-makers. In a statement is said that:

"As the creators of films, directors oppose giving someone the legal ability to alter... the content of a film that a director has made, often after many years of work. The proposed exception to copyright protection could have far-reaching implications that cannot fully be comprehended today."

Congressmen are urging Hollywood to make a deal with the software companies so that legislation is not required.