Rewriting a screen writing contract?
Question by Cen Takada: Rewriting a screen writing contract?
Hi there,
I’m in negotiation with a bunch of people to write a full feature screenplay for them. This is my first ever screen writing work, I was mostly writing and directing my own stuff.
They gave me a contract, but in it the wording are either too vague or just plain against me getting paid anything, there was no talk as of yet on how much they are willing to pay, so it is mostly me coming up with the numbers I think I am ok with and they will be ok with, but my hurdle at the moment is rewriting it with the correct wording.
What would be the right way to ask for an X amount of money up front plus either % if or once they use my script or parts of it to sell the movie option or residuals from the profits of the movie?
Best answer:
Answer by Anthony L
It’s quite easy to get lost in technicalities over a movie contract, especially when it comes to royalties and rights. Unless you are doing this one just as a form of practise and care not about potentially loosing out on a big pay-off down the line, then you should maybe consult a lawyer or have him read the contract to point you in the right direction. Of course a lawyer costs, but some might do it pro-bono on the understanding that if you set foot in the industry, they will be your first call.
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