Here's a script agreement question:

Jay Rodriguez

Jay Rodriguez

Coffee Member
I understand what optioning a screenplay is all about but what if a writer agrees to just let you film the screenplay for only credit as a writer? Would this still be considered an optioned material?
 
You've found a very unsavvy writer. I've given scripts away before but only with the understanding that the rights would revert to me if the film wasn't made in X amount of time.

Definitely wouldn't call it an option unless there's a time limit on it.
 
I'd still get an option agreement in place. Zero up front with a predetermined option period. The payola that would come if the show goes into production can be any amount or simply zero - but it MUST BE NEGOTIATED AS A PART OF THE LARGER AGREEMENT. It must not be left for "later" and none of it should be done on handshakes, even if it is a zero-sum negotiation on the up-front!

I wouldn't think this would be a good option - there should always be a "backend" on an option agreement. Often, producers will approach a writer with zero-down options as they are out of pocket for all development. They don't have a deal, you don't have any money.

That should change once they secure financing.

I suppose that there might be enterprising writers just getting started in the trade who would give their work away for copy and credits. That isn't a bad way to "get published" if you're absolutely certain that the work will be produced.

Best to still have a hard out on the option. Get it back in your hands if it's going to languish on the producer's shelf past the initial option period.

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If you don't get a release on paper by the screenwriter, he/she will still own
the story.
 
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