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Can I sue if a video of me is used in a commercially sold documentary without my permission and makes my character look bad?

2 views 3 answers
I am from NYC and a long time friend call me and said that there is a video of me at the age of say 13 or 14 years old and I am on a documentary movie about crime and drugs. I purchased the video and in my surprise, I see a close up video of me walking and negative narration over the video then it slow up on my face and go to the next scene. I work in the television industry and this video was a big shock for me and all of the people who have seen it as I know that a release form have to be sign in order to use such a video. Everyone is clearly stating that the video and the statement behind the video is horrific and messes up my character as the person I am today. Can I sue them for this video as the video as of today is being sold commercially?

Attorney Answers

3
Rixon Rafter ·
Perhaps you can. No way to tell from what is posted here whether not the case is worth anything i.e. whether you have any actual damages. You should speak to a civil litigation attorney in your area immediately. Good luck to you.
0 upvotes
Christopher Carrion ·
You could possibly have a defamation case of they said or implied anything about you that is untrue and it caused you damage. Also, in NY it is a violation of the Civil Rights Law to photograph or record someone for commercial use without their consent. Speak with an attorney about viable options moving forward.
0 upvotes