A release form grants the production the right to use a performer's contribution. Without a signed release, the performer retains rights to their performance under performers' rights (CDPA 1988) and could prevent the film from being distributed. UK Equity agreements include standard release provisions for union members.

• Performers have rights under CDPA 1988 — separate from copyright
• Principal performers: protected under Rome Convention — must consent to recording
• Background artists / extras: typically sign a release on the day
• Equity minimum terms apply to union productions
• Release must be signed before work is done — after-the-fact releases are harder to enforce

Legal reference: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 ss.180-212 (performers' rights); Rome Convention 1961