BEA2025

Do screenwriters need life rights when writing a story based on real events? What if they change significant details? What happens if life rights aren’t available at the time? Navigating these complexities can be challenging for creatives trying to focus on what matters most… telling a great story.

This panel will explore these issues from both a creative and legal perspective. First, Assistant Professor Benjamin S. Frahm, who teaches screenwriting at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School and wrote the script "48 Hours in Vegas," will share his experience. His script was optioned by Michael Jordan and his son, Jeffrey Jordan, but later faced life rights complications involving other characters. Next, we’ll hear from Associate Professor Imraan Farukhi, a Communication Law expert at Syracuse University, who will provide insights from the legal side.

Moderator: Benjamin S. Frahm, Syracuse University
Panelists: Imraan Farukhi, Syracuse University
J. Christopher Hamilton, SyracuseUniversity