Michael Donaldson

Michael Donaldson founded Donaldson & Callif with Lisa Callif in 2008. The firm focuses on independent films, specializing in fair use opinions and other clearance issues in scripted and documentary films. In 2007, Donaldson negotiated with insurance companies to provide errors and omissions policies to cover material used pursuant to fair use. Beginning in 2009, Donaldson successfully argued to the Copyright Office at the Triennial DMCA Exemption Hearing that documentary filmmakers be exempted from criminal portions of DMCA, relating to ripping DVD’s, Blue-Ray and streaming services to obtain material to be used pursuant to fair use.

Your Vision. Your Voice. Your Directing Journey Starts Here.

Step into the director’s chair and bring your creative vision to life. In Directing: Core Elements with filmmaker Marie Jamora, you'll gain the essential tools to confidently lead a set, work with actors, and translate a script to the screen.


This self-paced, 8-week course fits into your schedule while keeping you on track with deadlines and expert feedback from a Sundance Advisor. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to direct an assigned scene and receive professional insights to refine your craft.


Registration closes February 24! Secure your spot today.

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