Pitch Dictionary by pitch.dog
Underlying & adaptation rights · Core

Underlying rights

Also called: underlying material rights, source rights, underlying property rights

ELI5

Permission to use the book, article, format, life story or other material your project is built on.

Used in conversation

“Before we pitch the adaptation, confirm which underlying rights are actually controlled.”

Definition

Rights in pre-existing material or subject matter that must be controlled before an adaptation or exploitation can lawfully proceed.

Here “Underlying rights” means: Rights in pre-existing material or subject matter that must be controlled before an adaptation or exploitation can lawfully proceed.

Pitch context

A pitch based on another work or protected material must state the rights position accurately.

Why it matters: A compelling project can still be unmakeable or unsaleable if the necessary rights are unavailable.

Caution

Rights are jurisdiction- and contract-specific. This definition is educational, not legal advice.

Connected terms

  • Adaptation rightsAdaptation rights are one part of the underlying-rights picture.
  • Chain of titleChain of title records how underlying rights reached the current rights holder.
  • OptionAn option can temporarily secure the right to acquire underlying rights.
Sources & evidence · 3

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.