The Movie Database Support
Support → API Support
License implications
posted by JohnSTAFFMOD on February 14, 2015 at 1:14 PM
Hi,
I've created an iOS app that uses content from the themoviedb.org, including images from movies and actors. (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/flick-trivia/id924445696)
I'm concerned that perhaps I've not used the content in the app fairly and this app violates themoviedb.org's?? What are your thoughts on this? Also, could it be said that I am ok to make use of the data as far as actors etc are concerned? Many thanks!
Reply by John
on February 14, 2015 at 1:30 PM
Perhaps I should have requested permission to make use of the content prior to the app's release as mentioned in section 10 of the terms of use?? :s
Reply by Travis Bell
on February 14, 2015 at 2:12 PM
Hi John,
The primary thing is proper attribution to TMDb within your app. Do you properly attribute us anywhere? Using our data is fine if you do.
Let me know.
Reply by John
on February 14, 2015 at 2:20 PM
Hi, thanks for your prompt response! I do attribute to TMDb within the app - its on the help screen and the settings screen which are both buttons available from on the opening screen. And, would I require written permission to use the content as mentioned in section 10 of the terms? Many thanks.
Reply by Travis Bell
on February 16, 2015 at 10:22 AM
Hi John,
I think you're looking at the website terms of use. The API terms of use are located here.
You don't need any additional permission other than what we grated you by issuing you an API key and you agreeing to the terms of use.
Reply by John
on February 16, 2015 at 12:56 PM
Hi Travis, I was indeed looking at the website terms of use. Thanks for helping to clear things up!
Reply by John
on February 17, 2015 at 5:27 PM
Hi, I've finally gotten an update from Apple regarding my app. They've rejected an update to the app, citing the following:
Your app includes content that resemble one or more well-known third parties including Drew Barrymore, etc. without the necessary authorization to use these marks.'
and
'Acceptable documentation includes a copy of your contract with the copyright holder or a letter from the copyright holder to your company, detailing your authorization [to use the images and meta data in your app].'
I wonder if anyone else has also had any such rejection from the app store when making use of data from TMDb.org?
Reply by Travis Bell
on February 17, 2015 at 5:38 PM
Hi John,
Yes, I have seen this before, you can read more about it here: https://www.themoviedb.org/talk/530525ae9251413488038dc4
Long story short, we don't have anything else to give you apart of the permission we granted you when you got the API key.