Legal Question in Entertainment Law in California

Re: Use of clips

Mostly, those shows get the clips from the marketing/pr departments of the studios distributing the films.

Contact the various studios, tell 'em what you're doing, get on their mailing lists, and go for it. Be sure you get a clear document authorizing your intended use of the clips they provide.

If you want to use other clips, you'll want to obtain specific permission, including from the actors in the clip, music composer, screenwriter, etc. It can be a hassle.

In some cases, permission won't be required because of the Fair Use analysis, but you'll want to consult a lawyer before making that judgment.

Internet uses are not substantially different from TV use from a legal perspective... mostly some minor variations in content restrictions, liability, etc.