Italian Film and Television Law: Co-Productions, Contracts and Distribution
The Italian film and television industry operates within one of the most complex legal frameworks in Europe — a combination of national legislation, EU directives, bilateral co-production treaties, public funding requirements and broadcaster agreements that require specialist knowledge to navigate effectively.
We advise independent producers, documentary makers, directors, writers, distributors and production companies on all aspects of Italian and international film and TV law, from the earliest stages of development through to distribution and exploitation.
Our Expertise Includes
- Development and option agreements — option and purchase agreements for scripts, novels, life rights and underlying works
- Co-production agreements — Italian and international co-production contracts, bilateral treaty co-productions, Eurimages applications and minority co-production structures
- Italian public funding — tax credit cinematografico (automatic and selective), MiC contributions, eligibility requirements and contractual compliance under D.I. n. 225/2024
- PRCA registration — filing and management of registrations at the Pubblico Registro Cinematografico, mandatory for Italian productions and co-productions receiving public funding
- Distribution and sales contracts — domestic and international distribution agreements, minimum guarantee structures, output deals and VOD/streaming licensing
- Broadcaster agreements — contracts with Rai, Rai Cinema, Sky and other Italian broadcasters for commissioning, pre-sales and broadcast licensing
- Talent and crew agreements — director, cast and key crew contracts; moral rights waivers; agreements for occasional workers and VAT-registered collaborators
- Music clearances and composer agreements — original score contracts, synchronisation licences and clearance of pre-existing music for use in film
Italy and International Co-Productions
We have particular experience advising foreign producers on Italian co-production frameworks — including the specific requirements of the Italian-Serbian bilateral treaty, Eurimages co-productions, and the access conditions for Italian tax credit for foreign productions shot in Italy.
More than legal advice
Alongside our legal work, we also act as film agents: we accompany projects, look for producers and partners, and help place films. For an international production that means finding both its Italian legal footing and its way into the market — with one team.
Read about our scouting on the ground: DANDI.media at Karlovy Vary 2026
Read our guide: Italy-Serbia and Balkans Film Co-Productions: A Legal Guide for Producers and Documentary Filmmakers
Read: Tax Credits and Incentives for Italy-Europe Co-Productions: The Complete 2026 Guide
Read: Eurimages Co-Production: The Legal Roadmap to a Successful Application
Read: Clearing Copyrighted Material Before Submitting Your Film to Festivals
Book a Consultation
If you would like to discuss a copyright matter or project with us, book a call directly online. We respond within 24 hours on business days.
→ Claudia Roggero: claudiaroggero.youcanbook.me
→ Donato Di Pelino: donatodipelino.youcanbook.me
→ WhatsApp: +39 345.717.14.66