808.10 (C) Author and Authorship Variances
Generally, the registration specialist will compare the authorship statement given on the application with the credits on the copy or other information in the deposit material. If there is a variance, and the registration materials do not adequately explain the discrepancy, the specialist may communicate with the applicant to request clarification.
Examples:
• The applicant names Joan Craven as the author of “cinematography.” The credits name three other individuals as camera operators, but they do not mention Joan. Because the word “cinematography” means camera work and because the credits contradict the information provided in the application, the registration specialist will communicate with the applicant.
• The applicant names Clark James as “producer, director, editor.” The credits state “Produced and directed by Clark James” and “Edited by Don Ackers.” The application will be approved. The credits do not necessarily contradict the information provided in the application, because there are several kinds of editing involved in making a motion picture.
• The application names Cindy Taylor as author of the “entire motion picture.” The footage states that the XYZ Corporation is the author of this work. The registration specialist will communicate with the applicant, because the credits contradict the information provided in the application.