Cinematographic works, such as movies, television programs, or other audiovisual materials, are protected by copyright. If you are planning a screening of a cinematographic work on campus, it is your responsibility to make sure that your showing is compliant with Canadian copyright law.

When a movie, television program, or other audiovisual work is shown for educational and training purposes, it is possible to perform the work without permission using exceptions in the Copyright Act, provided that specific statutory requirements in the Copyright Act are met. If your screening does not meet these statutory requirements, a license will be required.

For students, student groups, and other campus organizations:

Please consult the Using Audiovisual Materials at the University of Toronto guide when planning your screening or event. This guide helps to clarify copyright considerations when using films and other audiovisual materials in various campus settings.

Contact information for student groups organizing film screenings at various campuses is available on the Office of the Vice-Provost, Student A/V materials guide.

For instructors:

Consult the Copyright Basics and FAQ for guidance on using films and other audiovisual materials in the classroom environment.

If you have questions about what constitutes a public performance, or how to get a license, please contact the Scholarly Communications & Copyright Office via email at copyright@library.utoronto.ca

Visit the Film Library collection site for details on advance reservations of audiovisual material for classroom/teaching use and to book viewing rooms.

Visit the Streaming video collection to discover films, documentaries, and performances which may be available on demand (subject to their license terms).

Film Screenings on Campus

Related to

Scholarly Communications and Copyright Office

Copyright Resources at U of T