Topic: Open source UI for film usage

Hey guys,

I'm about to start shooting a film project which requires a bunch of computer/phone interface insert shots scattered throughout. Basic stuff like smart phone calls/SMSs. Some operating system stuff on a laptop (engaging a proxy/VPN, for example) as well as some basic web browsing.

Since I'm aiming to treat the film-world as realistically as (dramatically) possible, that rules out Mark Coleran-esque stuff, as cool as it is. And since I'm not going to be getting the sign off from Apple/MS/whoever else, I don't think I can get away with using real stuff since it's too much of a legal minefield.

Ideally, I'd just reconstruct the OSX interface in After Effects, replace any overtly notable elements (logos, icons, aqua-bubble progress and scroll bars) and animate the specific events and cursor activity. The only problem is, I'm not sure how far I'd need to take it, to not be considered an infringement. Likewise for the Google search results page.

I was thinking... all I want, is to have a computer (and phone) interface that resembles what we're used to, but doesn't contravene copyright. And then it occurred to me, does perhaps something like this already exist - an open source skin for Linux or the Android OS, or even something like Windowblinds that I can use and shoot a real machine?

Or alternatively, does there exist pre-made generic OS interfaces (like people use for iphone app design) in PSD form which could be animated from as a base, without right restrictions?

Sorry for the ramble but I just thought I'd throw this out there and see if anyone here has encountered and dealt with something like this!

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

The good news is that I've never heard of anyone getting in trouble for using identifiable UI in a project. Covering up actual trademarks and logos tends to be plenty. However, if you really want to mock something up, I would look up Dashcode, Stencilsapp, or iPlotz.

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

Why don't you just get a hold of Apple for clearance?  I don't see why they would have a problem with you using OS X.

I've gotten plenty of things cleared for use by simply asking.


- Branco

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

Wait, why not just have your characters using an open source OS. Just install Ubuntu for the desktop, and you're good to go, you don't need any sign off for that. For phones, I can't say for sure. I would think that Android would be safe since its open source as well (and I can't imagine why google would care), but I'm not 100%

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

I've seen some big studio films use windows 95 or 98 with the logo removed and the word "Start" written in its place. Not that I'm a lawyer mind  smile

Extended Edition - 146 - The Rise Of Skywalker
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Re: Open source UI for film usage

OK, there's a program called "litestep" that is a shell replacement for windows. I used to use it for years, but since I've gone from XP to Win 7 I haven't really kept up with it. It's still developed, tho. This will pretty well disguise windows, aside from the startup/shutdown screens. I'm not really sure if it works with the newest windows... XP was the last I used it on...
http://litestep.info/
You can find themes for it on Deviantart. Most of the old shell theme sites have fallen off the web.
http://browse.deviantart.com/customizat … p/?order=9

You might also need Windowblinds to disguise the actual windows as well.

You will, of course, have to then talk to the guys who made the themes if you want to use them in your movie, but I imagine most of them would think it was pretty cool. Alternatively you could make your own theme. The theming system in Litestep is pretty easy. Might be an option, at least.

Not sure about how to do that with a phone, tho.

Last edited by Squiggly_P (2012-01-13 21:21:10)

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

Hey thanks for all the suggestions guys!

I'll definitely be sending some emails through to Ubuntu and Apple, to get a feel for whether I could use those (Ubuntu would actually make sense for a tech savvy character), and the litestep/window blinds is a good option if those don't go anywhere!

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Re: Open source UI for film usage

if you do end up needing someone to do phone screen replacements then I'll probably be able to help.

Extended Edition - 146 - The Rise Of Skywalker
VFX Reel | Twitter | IMDB | Blog

Re: Open source UI for film usage

bullet3 wrote:

Wait, why not just have your characters using an open source OS. Just install Ubuntu for the desktop, and you're good to go, you don't need any sign off for that. For phones, I can't say for sure. I would think that Android would be safe since its open source as well (and I can't imagine why google would care), but I'm not 100%

For the record, Ubuntu does actually own and enforce trademark on their branding just like any other company. Open source refers to the code, not the logos etc. But as others mentioned, sending off emails should be plenty, as I can't really see them having a problem with it.

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