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# 83008/13/10Hi. I am curious about copyright in the case of two or more authors for a same work (co-authors) Since copyright expires 70 years after the death of author, would it be 70 years after the last co-author dies? Thanks! Christine Valada
# 82998/12/10I had a book published by a company who has apparently gone out of business. My attempts to contact them have not worked. Do I get the rights back to my book automatically since they are out of business? Christine Valada
# 82988/7/10I am writing a script based on a true story of a WW2 hero who is now dead. I knew him personally and know his war record. My question is: do I need to get permission to write it from his next of kin? Any one else? Thanks for your reply, Arturo Christine Valada
# 82978/6/10I have a Falling Down type script updated to the new millennia with a computer operator(Edward Norton would be perfect for the part) gone postal when his job is phased out. I have submitted it to 500 agencies in Hollywood and been turned down. What am I doing wrong? Christine Valada
# 82665/21/10Hello I am writing a true crime story abook then hope to have it turned to a script my question is can I mention brandnames and products with out permission and not be sued ? for instance ;the killer drove a Madza 3 wagon, i had finnished the Whopper then heard the screams Christine Valada
# 82605/18/10Hi, 'am from Nigeria and i have this movie script i am working on but its really discouraging because i have no idea how to sell it. I know it sounds funny that i could write a movie script based on the U.S story lines but you'll be surprised at what i've got. So, how do i go about it. Thanks Christine Valada
# 82595/18/10Hi, 'am from Nigeria and i have this movie script i am working on but its really discouraging because i have no idea how to sell it. I know it sounds funny that i could write a movie script based on the U.S story lines but you'll be surprised at what i've got. So, how do i go about it. Thanks Christine Valada
# 82535/1/10Hi, I have written a screenplay based upon a public domain story and I was wondering if I should copyright my screenplay. Because the source material is public domain I am not sure if it is necessary to copyright. What is in your opinion the best option? Christine Valada
# 82524/27/10Hello. I'm currently living in Mexico City, so it's easier for me to register a script with the Mexican Copyright office. Does this give me enough protection or should I also register it with the U.S. Copyright office? What if a British / Spanish / etc. company wants to buy the script? Register again in Britain / Spain / etc.? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 82424/7/10Hi Christine, Thanks for this awesome service. I have one of the few extant copies of a biography published 80 years ago. I'm debating between writing a novel and writing a screenplay. Either of these would be based on the biography. I want to retain the plot and events from the biography, but retell the content totally in my words. What are the copyright implications? What about plagiarism? Would writing a novel be a better idea? Christine Valada
# 82343/24/10Hi. Are jokes copyrighteable? I'm writing a script about a stand-up comedian and I would like to know if I can use jokes I find on the web are told to me by friends, or through chain email for that character. Thanks Christine Valada
# 82263/17/10Hi I write short scripts, avg. 5 pg. ea. Would it be convenient to make a monthly package "10 scripts Feb-2010" and register them as a single work? $35 vs. $350 monthly - huge difference. Or books w/multiple short stories/poems by the same author (me). Should I register each one of them separately or is it OK to register them as a whole? Any potential problems if a producer wants only one of them? Thx Christine Valada
# 81781/6/10The WRITERS LITERARY AGENCY & SERVICES,INC. have agreed to try and market my script 'I rode with Castro' based on American-journal artical 1959.(ceased trading) Written by Errol Flynn. I find it strange they haven't mentioned copyright. Who should I ask about fees? Christine Valada
# 817612/16/09Hi Christine, I have two screenplays done and proof read by an author. Do i need to copy write my screenplay before I register it with the WGA? Christine Valada
# 817512/15/09Thanks so much. I appreciate that (and figured that would be the common sense answer.) Christine Valada
# 817111/27/09Christine: under California law, is it permissible for a witness to listen to testimony prior to his/her own testimony? Or must the witness be sequestered before testifying? And if the witness says on the stand that they changed their testimony on the basis of listening to previous witnesses-- what then? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 816411/7/09Over five years ago, I did a work for hire spec script for a company. If the film was made, then I would receive payment. The company folded, the film never got made, and I never got paid. I've made attempts to contact the company but have not succeeded. Now, I would like to use the screenplay on my own and market it myself. In your opinion, would this be legal? Christine Valada
# 815910/12/09Dear Christine, If I am writing a story inspired by true events, and borrow a line here or a background short tale there from someone's life, would I have to still pay them for any life rights or any rights they might have in this scenario? Thanks Christine Valada
# 81469/15/09Thanks for your last answer. Another subject - wrote a script based on a true story which a producer is interested in. However, he thinks it might be preferable to take the people it's written about out of the story (this happened in 2001). Can we base it on a true story and not mention any names? Would that make sense? Christine Valada
# 81409/2/09I'm thinking of writing a movie (true story) about someone whom a play has been written. I found the author and feel a bit shy about asking to read the play - or how would I work out borrowing from it without using anything word for word? I know I'd write a mostly if not entirely original screenplay. What approach can you recommend? Christine Valada
# 81389/1/09Hello. I have several unregistered outlines, treatments and short stories waiting to be fully developed. I was wondering if it's OK to do one big "2009 compilation" and register it at the copyright office, not the WGA. Later, when they are fully developed I'd register them separately. Thanks! Christine Valada
# 81348/27/09how much can you use copyrighting? Christine Valada
# 81328/16/09Hi, Ms. Valada. I was wondering about dialogue. Specifically, whether or not it's legal to have a character in a spec script mention, say, comic book characters or movie characters, or go into conversation about a movie's plot. Thanks in advance. Christine Valada
# 81267/31/09hi i have wrote a movie script based on a tv show that is no longer aired on tv and i was wondering what i need to do to avoid legal problems and if need be how do i go about getting permission. Christine Valada
# 81197/14/09Ma'am, I want to know is selling the TV rights (to say HBO) and cable rights (a local cable station) at the same time legal. regards, Gururaj Christine Valada
# 80746/10/09If you were down to your last 100 bucks and had what you believed to be an exceptional screenplay would you: A. Enter it in a screenplay contest. B. Use a service that would send out an e-mail(query) to hundreds of industry pros. C. Pay for coverage of the screenplay. Christine Valada
# 80485/23/09 After sending a synopsis to a producer he said I would need to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement before we could discuss moving ahead with the project. He then sent me a Non-Disclosure Agreement and said if I was in agreement to sign it and return it with a synopsis/logline of the screenplay. What does this mean? I have had producers have me sign a release before but never a Non-Disclosure Agreement? Christine Valada
# 80222/11/09Dear Christine I am working on a script based on an MGM 1940s, black and white film. I am reworking the script to make the characters, scenery believable for this century. However, I am following the original storyline very closely. How do I present this script and how do I protect myself and MGM in the process? Kind Regards David Friend Christine Valada
# 80131/27/09Ms.Valada, I want to make an independent film remake of an old 50's film. I have rewritten the screenplay to modernize the film. What are the copywrite laws/restrictions for remaking films before I pursue this any further. -Michael, California. Christine Valada
# 80121/26/09Hi! I was once represented by William Morris Agency. They offered me a 6 figure number for my story. I didn't have to have it PERFECT or publish ready. They just wanted my story. 20 years later, I am ready to tell the story about my TRIAL and LOSS of my child. Do you think I could find an agent that would take my story and try and sell it "AS IS." Thanks. TJ Christine Valada
# 80081/15/09Hi Christine. I wrote a script based on a true story, only some of the characters might writhe when they see themselves portrayed on the screen. Do you suggest changing the names of those characters (although I intend to keep my main characters' names intact)? Christine Valada
# 80061/14/09Dear Christine, I want to produce a tv show who will refer to some movies already made and screen. How should I proceed if I want to screen a 10 seconds of the Titanic or Brave Heart? Do I have to contact each distributor? What will be the legal aspect I should take care of? Thanks in advance Annie Coutu Christine Valada
# 799412/22/08Hi, Ms. Valada, I want to write my screenplay and am considering the various screenwriting software. On one hand, purchasing one seems plausible but, on the other hand, so does using web-based software.Both have drawbacks. The former tends to be expensive, and the latter seems risky,in terms of property theft(the script),but some are free. One such site is Plotbot. I don't know if it's safe. Please, if possible,advise me in this matter.Thank you, Ms. Valada. Christine Valada
# 798412/9/08Hi Christina: Should I always have a Confidentiality Agreement(s) on me while I submit my independent feature project to selected production companies interested in my script? I have an entertainment lawyer, yet don't know how many he should draw up? Thanks.. NewYorkWriter Christine Valada
# 798212/8/08Dear Christine, I am trying to produce a movie shooting next year in Canada with a budget of 5,000,000 USDollars. Can this money all be made up of debt finance or do you simply just have to have equity finance as part of the package? thanks for you help Christine Valada
# 797912/2/08Hi Christine! Recently, a notable talent agent in China replied to my email inquiry via search for completed screenplays. Because my story takes place in the States and in China, a joint venture opportunity might work out. This agent wants me to send "all information relating to the movie, with your estimated budget, any producer(s) interested." I'm a recent NYU film graduate with only my script?. Hire entertainment lawyer now?? Christine Valada
# 796511/1/08An indy producer who's wanted a script on the true life topic I've written wants to read it. He hasn't mentioned a release form, but I want to (to avoid plagerism). Should I ask him to sign one and return it before sending him script? Or what is best procedure? Christine Valada
# 793810/2/08i signed a script option in 9/07 which obligated me to perform 1 re-write and 2 polishes. i've now done 3 re-writes and 1 polish. the option states that the term begins "18 months of the date of 2nd polish." producer now wants to bring on another writer, taking the script in a direction that I'm uncomfortable with. has option begun? did the prod-co's request for more than 1 rewrite render contract null? Christine Valada
# 79359/24/08Is it legal to write a follow-up movie script if you are not the writer of the previous movie? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 79259/9/08Can you tell me the difference between a screenplay that's "based upon a true story" vs. a documentary or a docudrama? Thanks Christine Valada
# 79209/1/08How do I get a story analyst position at a film studio? Christine Valada
# 79189/1/08How do I get an job in the mailroom at William Morris agency or another big talent agencies mailroom? Christine Valada
# 79178/29/08If I write a screenplay "inspired by a true story", would I need to mention the names of anyone involved in what inspired me? Christine Valada
# 79128/21/08Re copyrighting a script, I found this inexpensive and quick service online ($19). Do you think it will work? http://www.protectrite.com/faq.asp Would it substitute for WGA and copyright office? Also, is copyrighting different from registering it? How do I do that? Through an ad agency? Christine Valada
# 79098/20/08Do you suggest copywriting a script, submitting it to WGA or both? What is the best way to protect my script? Christine Valada
# 79078/18/08 I have just written a screenplay based upon a true story, and I've not changed the characters' names, These events happened 1999 - 2001, and my protagonists still have a lawsuit pending against these unsavory characters (pre-trial in September). is it o.k. to leave the names as is, or shall I modify them ? Could I be sued for defamation of character if I keep them true to life? Christine Valada
# 79058/17/08i would like my life story from 6years old to be filmed i was olso in bording schools reforms plases of savety 15 years in prison for murder ilove acting would like to preform some parts aswell my self how do i sell my story for good money and to who inwolf`s lot of action love hate confuccion sex alcall drugs and gangsters reablitation and cristianety Christine Valada
# 79018/10/08Non-WGA screenwriter writes a treatment based on a concept by he and a friend - friend and screenwriter�s names on the WGAw registered treatment. Screenplay copyrighted and WGA-registered by screenwrighter. Are their guidelines for a standard buyout dollar-amount or percentage the friend is entitled to? Could the friend enjoin the production or prevent the sale of the screenplay by refusing to sign off on the chain-of-title for a fair and reasonable amount? Christine Valada
# 78968/4/08I signed a publishing contract about a year ago. In it there was no mention of fees. Now, I have been informed that a fee must be paid to some major book distributors. The fee is not something I have to pay out of my pocket, but it will be taken out of my royalties. Is this standard procedure or am I being taken? Christine Valada
# 78917/30/08I AM AN ASPIRING ACTOR, HOW DO I GET AN AGENT FOR WORK? Christine Valada
# 78827/17/08I have completed my screenplay. However, I now understand that the basic premise has already been done. Whilst the basic premise is the same, the characters, incidents, dialogue and my treatment of the story is very different to the 'other version'. One or two scenes have a vague echo of scenes from the 'older' screenplay. Does this mean my screenplay is no longer an 'original screenplay'? Christine Valada
# 78737/8/08Do I need to buy film rights? Writing a script, based on a living person, using the same title as their biography, but NOT using the material of the book. Just the title, & persons name. The biography is a self published book. Christine Valada
# 78616/10/08greetings, i have this story idea which i think would be a great book or movie, how many pages would i be required to have ready for a movie and a book? Last part, what kind of money are scripts going for from unknown writers? thanks Christine Valada
# 78526/3/08if u write a screenplay with a friend and he dies what way do u submit your screenplay do you need to include his nme on the option your offered Christine Valada
# 78495/23/08National Treasury When I was a kid about 9 and 10 years old I did the National Treasury job. Bruckhimer wrote the script from the FBI report. The star 9-10 years old they portrayed it with a actor who has a pugnant repulsive aura, old and to tall, no one ask me for permission to do my life story and there is no royalty from walt Disney or Bruckheimer. Can I sue or what should I do? Christine Valada
# 78485/23/08Ma'am, There are certain countries where you have to get local crew to film there. I�m going to pursue my MBA from San Francisco through a work and study program and I am thinking of working as an Executive Assistant to VP Production on a student visa with work permit and at the same time submit screenplays. If you want to sell screenplay in USA and you are from India, what are the legal procedures? Regards, Gururaj Christine Valada
# 78425/13/08I as a screenwriter optioned a novel from the writer. I completed a screenplay and now have a producer interested in the whole property. At this point, what is normally done:(A) I give up my rights to the book and the producer signs an option with each of us? or (B) I sign a book-and-screeenplay option with the producer? (The latter would require ajdustments to the contract I have with the writer) Many thanks. Christine Valada
# 78064/12/08Hi. I'm a student in India and I'd like to think that I'm on my way to getting a script of mine produced in Hollywood. I just want to know how to prevent the theft of my script. Thank you so much. Christine Valada
# 78024/8/08I have written a ceincefiction and want to sale it to a producer,how can i find? Christine Valada
# 77984/3/08I adapted a friend�s eNovel (sells for $3 on her website) as a favor and to get adaptation experience. I ask her about what she expects for the rights, in an email she said �She knows I�ll get the best deal I can.� Is that enough to consider myself her agent in any potential sale? What would rights be worth, and how can I protect myself and move forward? Christine Valada
# 77973/24/08Could I still say my screenplay was "inspired by a true story" if I base it on true events (for a living family today), but change the location, their names, and set it in the future (2020 AD)? Christine Valada
# 77953/23/08If I base my screenplay on true events (for one living family), but change the location and the names, and even fictionalize their characters a bit, will I need their permission or need the buy the rights from them? Thanks Christine Valada
# 77873/19/08Thanks for your other answers. Can you tell me what percentage a writer would typically offer someone (or a family) for the rights to their true life story? Christine Valada
# 77853/17/08Christine, if I' get to decide what amount to pay someone for their true story (let's say 10% of whatever lump sum I receive when they decide to produce it), can you suggest how the residual rights would work? Could I say that they'd receive e.g. a percentage (10 or 20%) of what I'd receive in terms of distribution for movie theatres or television? Thanks Christine Valada
# 77843/16/08I want to write a screenplay based upon a true story and the people involved have agreed. In fact they're not asking for any money. Nevertheless, I'd like to write up some sort of agreement. O.k. to ask for exclusive rights to their story for a few years and write that they're agreeable to receiving whatever money I'd willingly give them if my script is produced? Christine Valada
# 77613/3/08hi, I consider to copyright my screenplay again. I make a lot of changes in words, but the story and characters are still the same. And it says that if it's some minor changes I don't have to copyright but if major I have to, but what's the difference? thank you! Christine Valada
# 77572/23/08I have a character in a screenplay that is portrayed in an antagonist. This character is based rather heavily off of someone I have known for a while. How close can this character be to the actual person with out me having to ask this person's permission? Christine Valada
# 77562/21/08ma'am, I heard that prod cos in US will read if you got an attorney. I want to know would an Indian attorney work? regards, Gururaj Christine Valada
# 77542/21/08hi, what is exactly a release form? If I copyrighted my screenplay then I shouldn't worry to sign a release form? thank you! Christine Valada
# 77452/11/08Christine, I love Mark Twain's work. I recently read that Twain actually started to write a sequel to Huckleberry Finn, but it didn't work out. I have often thought I would like to do a screenplay that's a sequel to the story. What would I have to do to use the original characters? Is Twain's work in the public domain? Christine Valada
# 77412/7/08Hi, few months ago I registeredin WGAW and copyrighted my script, but since that time I made some changes in words, the story is still the same, what is your advise, I should register or copyright again or not? I'm sure that in the future my script will be changes many times, means I have to register that many times? thank you! Christine Valada
# 77372/2/08Christine - I recently completed a bio screenplay. For good or worse, there are several real characters in it, some still living. Also, my research entailed gathering info from the only two bios written about him. Should I attempt to gain the book rights and/or releases from the actual individuals, or concentrate on finding representation as my first priority? Thanks - Will Christine Valada
# 77181/15/08What are my chances of selling, pitching a reality show concept to producers, agents or production companies? Is selling a reality show concept easier than trying to sell a screenplay? And how with this current writers strike will effect my process? Christine Valada
# 769512/31/07A 1st time producer in the UK has read one of my spec scripts twice. He says he loves it & wants it. I have no agent because I have yet to sell anything. Would any WGA contracts hold up when dealing with the UK? I have read that some agents will pick you up if there is a sale pending - which is where I am. Thank You! Christine Valada
# 768112/20/07Dear Ms. Valada, How do I properly do a film production company business plan? What does it need, etc? Christine Valada
# 768012/19/07Christine - A producer wanted a screenplay about a �true-life� affair between a man/woman (World War II). He provided interview notes and a book by a relative, but facts/characters/motivations were in contradiction. I suggested a work of fiction. Agreed I copyrighted my screenplay. He optioned. It expired. He rewrote my script, told me I�m out and can�t market mine since it�s based on a true story. My characters and narrative still remain. Options? PJ Christine Valada
# 765712/2/07Ms. Christine, I heard from other experts a writer can have some leverage in the casting. Though, it depends on how much the director wants your advice and likes your work. I also heard I can have it written directly into my contract. I don't exactly know what he meant, but what's your take on this? -Jacob Christine Valada
# 765211/30/07Christine, I attended college in Philly at the Art Institute for a/v engineering and screen writing. The book for my screen writng class was Syd Field's "Sceen Writing" or something to that effect? I attended school back in '92/'93. What book or website do you recommend for the proper formatting of the script. I have many ideas and would like to write but not sure which format is today's standard? John ;-) Christine Valada
# 764611/29/07I was reading an article on television writing and it said that you need to write a spec script for an existing show. Isn't that copyright infringement? Christine Valada
# 764011/21/07I want to write a book on Bob Marley. I want to dissect his songs and interpret them in book form. {Not about his life}I need to know if i would have to get any rights from the family to do this in jamaica, or is considered public domain? Christine Valada
# 763911/20/07Ms. Valada, As a writer for hire, I am expected to deliver material installments at dates set forth in my contract. What are the standard time limits producers have to give notes on delivered material and, is there a limit to how long they can stretch out the process? Thank you for you time. Christine Valada
# 763811/20/07Is the following plotline conceivable? 1. Man is charged with serious offence. Has date set for trial by jury. 2. Man offends again - a lesser charge this time - trial by judge. 3. Man is sentenced for second case before first case begins. My script is a comedy, and though I don't know much of law, it seemed that "Anger Management" didn't take the court process too seriously, so perhaps I need not worry. Christine Valada
# 761511/15/07Is this a valid complaint? A usually legit screenwriting service sold a $98 class w/ chance to submit scripts to a small agency about to merge w/ a large one. When I followed up, agent said she closed her agency to work for large agency. Head agent at large agency said she was an intern and our scripts were not received at her agency. No one could verify scripts were read by legitimate agent. Thanks, Christine Valada
# 756910/20/07Ms. Christine, I've decided I want to sell my script and see if I can get it out there. Problem: I don't want to just send it out not knowing who can make sequels, remakes, or change certain things in it. I don't want my script taunted and played with. I need some advise. -Jacob Christine Valada
# 754510/16/07In the screenwriting books I've read, and the many tips, who is correct? On Theme: Michale hages says it must be on page 3, Blake Snyder says pg.5, Viki King-3 DMA-by pg 8. so if a reader is reading and turns to page 3, and it's on pg 5, would it get tossed because they think you don't know structure? what's right? Christine Valada
# 751510/4/07Hi Christine...I have a simple question...I was wondering if a non-union writer can seek representation by a manager or agent during the WGA strike? Or does that count as "crossing the picket line" or labeling them a "scab?" Thank you! Christine Valada
# 75119/28/07 I have a dark comedy I am trying to sell. I have an agent repping it. Now a producer emailed me and wants to read the script and if he likes it he will shop it around. If he does not get signed on as a producer he wants 15% of the sale. Is it okay to do this? Christine Valada
# 75109/27/07Dear Christine, I am working on producing my second feature with a budget of $6M USD to be made in the UK. Once I have done this I would like to move to LA to be based there. What are the legal complications of such a move? Regards, Martin Proctor Christine Valada
# 74999/14/07Dear Christine, I have just been asked to produce my first feature. When we set up the company to take this forward should I ask for a 50/50 split of profits and what sort of weekly wage should I expect? it is fully funded. Thanks Christine Valada
# 74839/4/07What are some good tips as a new screenwriter to get proper representation from a talent agents that specializing in selling film script for their clients? How long it usually take to sell a spec script? Christine Valada
# 74658/13/07I have a script, based on true events, but where the event went one way, i went the other. The location of the movie will give away the event should it become produced. What rights do i need to obtain from the people involved if any. The names of everyone involved are changed. Thank you, Joe Christine Valada
# 74648/11/07My published novel is already protected by copyright. If I am submitting it for consideration as a possible screenplay, do I any need any further protection such as registration with the writers guild? Christine Valada
# 74588/5/07So the producer receives the 15pp and gets cross because my partner's name is on it ("You can't sell a treatment with 2 names on it." Huh?) and decides she "has too much on her plate" and is uninterested. So-- is this SOP and are we SOL, or is this a matter for the WGA? (No, there was no written contract... For someone w/20 years experience, I'm such a naive soul. Duh.) Christine Valada
# 74578/5/07I suggested a remake of a copyrighted 1960 film to a producer (legit; she has deals with Scorcese, Malkovitch, etc.). She requested a meeting; asked for a 5pp treatment to submit to CAA, which that would package it with their writer & director, & resolve rights issues; that I should follow with an expanded treatment (12-15pp) ASAP. So far, so good; this sounded promising. Christine Valada
# 74538/1/07I am not a screenwriter, but I have written several treatments for my story ideas already. So my question is...How do I go about scheduling a pitch meeting with any producers or studios? How much money are they're offering for just selling your story ideas? Christine Valada
# 74177/11/07I have an option on a book that I wish to turn into a movie. The editor with whom I had the contract has recently declared bankruptcy and has disappeared. In a case like this, do the rights of the book (which were with the editor) fall automatically back to the author ? Annie Christine Valada
# 73706/16/07On the WGA West website it said that you don't have to be in the western US to register a script. What is the difference between the east and west branches of the WGA. Is it better to get your work registered by the WGA or the U.S. Copyright Office. Christine Valada
# 73636/16/07Hello Christine, I am an unrepresented but produced screenwriter creating a web site to promote myself and the several movies that I've had produced. Are there any legal concerns regarding posting Quicktime movie trailers on my site? Or images of the DVD covers or posters? Thank you for your time and help on this matter, Christine. Christine Valada
# 73616/15/07Being a rookie/unknown producer how would I join a film project in development (or pre-production already) that I am very interested in? How do jump aboard another producer's film project? Any rules to this? Christine Valada
# 73556/13/07Hello Christine, I am getting conflicting accounts from courthouses in Los Angeles County re: the availability of court transcripts. To your knowledge, are court transcripts destroyed after ten years? Thank you for your time and insight. Christine Valada
# 73506/12/07Dear Ms. Valada, Sorry for all the questions recently! Is the form that you would download for my copyright situation involving the use of the biography the "Copyright Assignment Agreement for Literary Works?" I am unsure! Thanks again! Christine Valada
# 73496/12/07Dear Ms. Valada, You are invaluable! I am going to start on my own contract! However, when it comes to acknowledgments for a script, how exactly does that work? Before I send it out to agents, should I put "Based on the book by x published by Y" on the cover page with my personal contact information and title? Is that satisfactory or is there some other remedy? Countless thanks again! Christine Valada
# 73406/11/07Dear Ms. Valada, Per your excellent advice, I have contacted the author through the publisher and received his permission to base a script on his historical research. However, he wants me to draw up the contract, and then send it to him and his publisher for review. Can you suggest or link to any lawyers/firms that will undertake that service for me for a modest fee? Many thanks again! Christine Valada
# 73376/11/07RE: #7322 Do I need to do anything if it was written about in 2 (at least) local newspapers in 1945. Christine Valada
# 73186/9/07I am writing and directing a screenplay based on a local legend that took place at a mental institution that has been torn down. The events (which make the backstory, not the main plot) are based on research and the characters are fictional. What do I need to do, if anything, to aquire rights to the story. The events have never been proven to have actually happened. Christine Valada
# 73116/7/07Hi Christine, I am a senior BBC producer and have made hundreds of factual films (and have won a number of awards). I have now written my first full length feature film. Drama based on fact. I am interested in being involved in the production. I have never used an agent but am travelling through Santa Monica in July. Can you recommend anyone to meet? Sharon Christine Valada
# 72985/26/07Dear Ms. Valada, When you refer to structure of a book, what do you mean? In the biography that I like, the author includes many intimate scenes and ancedotes of the monarchs' lives in chronological order. I believe that many of these moments would work well on screen. Would it be problematic for me to use these detailed historical episodes in the same order without permission? Thanks for all your insightful help! Christine Valada
# 72955/25/07Dear Ms. Valada, Thanks for answering my previous question. If I do want the rights to the biography, how should I go about doing that? This book was published in 2003 in Great Britain by Sutton Publishing. I have no idea how to contact the English author. What do you recommend? Should I contact the British Patent Office? Would there be any substantial upfront costs for these rights? Thanks again! Christine Valada
# 72905/24/07Dear Ms. Valada I want to write a script based on the lives of two 17th century English monarchs. Online research led me to this exhaustive dual biography. The author relied on many books and primary source documents, as these people are already part of public domain. Is copyright violated if I used this abundance of historical facts, background, and knowledge to craft a screenplay with my interpretations and dialogue? Thanks! Christine Valada
# 72885/24/07I live in the middle of PA. I write poems, stories, screenplays; whatever comes to mind. Even if I wouldn't want to be a screenwriter and move to NYC or LA, should I keep writing screenplays, then send them out to agencies when they're 100 percent done? Or am I wasting my time? Christine Valada
# 72785/13/07Hello Christine, In the script ADAPTATION by Charlie and Donald Kaufman, there's a scene in a Green Ford with music playing in the background. The first sentence of the scene is simply: Nirvana blasts. A specific song is mentioned. What legal rights are required to include Nirvana's music in the background? What if the music is near-muted under the conversation of the actors? Thanks, Tom Christine Valada
# 72213/26/07Dear Christine. If i'm writing about an histroical event (all persons not living), using the events that took place, but creating characters in place of the actual people who were involved, does that count as copyright infringement? If so, do I need to disguise the event (which is sort of impossible). There have been many books written on this subject. Your help would be much appreciated. Christine Valada
# 72093/20/07madam, I've decided to Produce a $2 million feature in US (including distribution) the money may come from US banks. Since I'm an Indian, I need to know other than getting work permit visa, what else are the formalities that I've to go through to work in films in USA? BTW, I am in QnA with Mr.Brooks regarding similar topic. regards, Gururaj Deshpande Christine Valada
# 71763/19/07i have letters and documents by a defense lawyer assigned to a high profile wwll war criminal. the war crimes trial was famous,the details envolving the defense lawyer wasn't, mainly due to press blackouts. so heres my question; i have ivy league law schools interested in the material, how ever i have a regisitered script based on the material. the script is nothing, but would it inhibit the sale? thank you. Christine Valada
# 71753/15/07I want to pursue a Lawyer as my representation. Are they more difficult to get than agents and managers? and how do I approach Lawyers? regards, Gururaj Deshpande Christine Valada
# 71653/10/07legally am I able to mention an event like woodstock. How much am I able to talk about it. Can characters attend it. Christine Valada
# 71633/9/07well, i know this sounds stupid but me and my friends want to start a kids news show and we are only 10 how can we do this? Christine Valada
# 71583/4/07RE#7156, unfortunately, you confirmed my suspicions. The "net" is what really prompted my concern. I�m disappointed for a variety of reasons, but mostly because the writer/producer who made the offer has written one of the mega hits of the last 25 years and is supposed to be �reputable�. Sadly, he made it pretty clear that is all he has to offer. Oh well, back to the drawing board! Thanks Christine. Christine Valada
# 71563/2/07I’m an un-produced screenwriter who just received a ‘free’ option offer for my script. The back end purchase price is 3% of the “below the line” cost of the picture beginning with base price $200,000.00, top price $350,000.00. I also get 5% of net profits of the picture calculated on a favored nation’s basis with the net percentage points of the producer listed herein. What does this mean? (ie, good deal or bad deal?) Christine Valada
# 71402/26/07Christine, I am produced screenwriter starting a new project based on a true story. The main character is alive but incarcerated in prison, and by all accounts, his sanity is in question. Do I need his permission to write a story based on his life, or can it be an "unauthorized" biography? Will this person have any rights to my script if I don't get his permission? Thank you for your valuable insight. Christine Valada
# 71262/19/07Hi, I'm working on a hidden camera show in which we put people in awkward situations, and they don't know they are being filmed. Do we have to ask the people permission to use their image on TV after we are done with the shots? If we don't could we get in trouble? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 71252/14/07I wrote a screenplay and i was also registered it in WGA,now i like to submit it to warner bros pictures.But i have no idea how to submit it in currect way so ,could you please tell me how to submit it . Christine Valada
# 71242/14/07Thanks for reanswering the Mark Litwak's question. I'll look it up. Christine Valada
# 71232/14/07Dear Christine, I am one of the producers of this movie, however, I have found it easier to walk intoa finance house and say I need $8,000,000 USD and they say ok rather than finding an initial $20,000 to pay them for the work they will be doing. This is the stumbling block of finding the initial development money. Christine Valada
# 71222/13/07A friend of mine had an idea for a script and asked if I wanted to write it. His pitch to me was nothing more than a log line. If I am able to sell the script, what would be the percentage split of any money received? Christine Valada
# 71202/12/07Thanks. Now all I need to know is where to find Mark Litwack's website or book. The name of the book, etc. Christine Valada
# 71192/12/07Dear Christine, I am a film maker based in London working on developing a US Feature. I have interest from a Hollywood Director and a Hollywood Producer and interest from finance firms in London but need to raise initial development money. Colleagues of mine have told me that their attorney's have done this for them and helped raise significant amounts. Is this correct and if so how do I go about contacting the relevant people? Christine Valada
# 71182/11/07I'm starting a screenwriting management company. Where can I find a generic option agreement, contract to sign writers, and writer's collaborative contract that I can tailor make into my company's own. And can I do this? Christine Valada
# 71162/8/07I am writing a script based on a popular story. The film is to be self-produced. Although the story is well known and public domain, is there any way to know if anyone owns the film rights? If not, can I buy them to protect myself? And if someone does, can I still write and register the script in the hopes of buying the rights? Christine Valada
# 70962/6/07Am I legally able to include the name of a popular sporting event like the Superbowl or NCAA Final Four(I know a lot of bars and parties refer to the Superbowl as "The Big Game" because of legal reasons) in charaters dialogue and narrative descriptions. Can I have characters watch these events, either in person or on TV. Christine Valada
# 70952/6/07I was married to a woman and am now divorced. Our story was amazingly horrible from a psychological/social/family standpoint. Totally dysfunctional. But with amazingly dysfunctional events and such. What do I need to do to write my story in terms of my former in-law's permission? All would be absolutely true but not necessarily flattering. DBell Christine Valada
# 70912/1/07I want to write a biography about my grandather and I have a question. Since I am his grandson would I legally have to get the rights to his life story? If so, who would I get them from? His son (my uncle)? His 2 oldest daughters (my aunts)? His youngest daughter (my mother) Christine Valada
# 70801/25/076910: New York is the location of estate handler. When do you use "based on a true story" vs. "Inspired by a true story?" And when is it ok to use the exact same names vs. having to make up new ones? There are many publications both in txt and online (bio & autobi). Do I need to credit these if events are paraphrased? Christine Valada
# 701112/19/06Thanks again for your reply, I have contacted an attorney today. This production company I am dealing with has been nothing but gracious and helpful throughout the entire process and I can only hope that everything works out for all involved. Christine Valada
# 701012/19/06Thanks for answering...and yes! The development executive is quite legit, matter of fact the production company and producers are very well known and successful. Christine Valada
# 700912/19/06 One year ago,I wrote my first script, pitched it as a dramatic series, worked with the development executive on the series bible for 4 months and am now anticipating our confirmed meeting concerning the attachment of a showrunner. I am completely green. I haven't an agent, nor have I signed one legal paper for my work so far. What do I do in order to protect myself from this point on? Christine Valada
# 698412/4/06RESPONSE: 6982. If I didn't put a copyright on it now and wanted to after I would sell it, could I do that? Christine Valada
# 698212/4/06I have a story I want to send to Playboy Magazine. Would it be a good idea to send it to the WGA, first? Christine Valada
# 697011/30/06RESPONSE: 6963. Yes, Steven King can live wherever he wants and still work in Hollywood. But I know when he first started out, he did get rejected from some of the books he wrote. He lived in Maine. Christine Valada
# 696311/27/06RESPONSE: 6959. That's what I was talking about, spec scripts. Is it fine to live in PA and write specs? Writing stories, non-fiction I think would be fine. I mean, Stephen King lives in Maine and writes. Do spec scripts have just as good a chance selling like other screenplays? I believe SCREAM was a scep script, that turned into a bidding war. Christine Valada
# 695911/25/06I don't know if I want to make a career in writing. I'm in the process of writing screenplays, short stories, I wrote a short synopsis for a book I was thinking of. I like to come up with CREATIVE ideas and write them. Is it a bad thing to not want a career in writing if I'm writing? I think of myself staying in PA and churning out things. Maybe in future, that'll change. Christine Valada
# 694911/18/06I have the perfect film script. make sure that you contact me by this mail address agnmkl@yahoo.com Thank you Christine Valada
# 691011/3/06Annimation script based conceptionally on the early life of a well known figure. The person's early life is extremely dark so I've lightened it up extensively (for children). While doing research, I found a site that lists the estate handler. It_says_that_I_need_to get their permission if writing a script of the person's life and/or likeness. In my case, is this true? The person has not been dead for 70 years. Christine Valada
# 690410/25/06I have written a screenplay based on a true story. While searching the web for additional information, I ran into an article that dealt with my central character's life and the facts that form the basic theme of my screenplay. The article just happened to have the same title as my movie. My gut tells me to change it. Your opinion? Christine Valada
# 689510/18/06Years back, my partner and I were asked to adapt a comic book. New World's boilerplate contract read: ALL CHARACTERS IN THIS WORK ARE ORIGINAL WITH THE AUTHORS... we argued, "The character dates to 1943, we didn't invent him." The lawyer was adament-- sign this or we get another writer. Not only was it a lie, we could see us getting in deep doo-doo. What would you have told a client? Christine Valada
# 688510/13/06I'll be buying a new compter at the end of the month. Could you please advise me as to what I'll need? I was thinking a pentium Four. What do you suggest? I don't want tot buy the wrong one. Sincerely, Diane Christine Valada
# 68199/29/06can i get a story and not a script sold Christine Valada
# 68159/26/06Just how protected is my screenplay if it is both registered with the WGAw and U.S. Copyright office, but my synopsis for the same script is not registered with the WGAw if I've been sending the synopsis out and about to managers and agents in order to find representation? Please help me with this answer because it has been plaguing me all day! Thank you in advance. Christine Valada
# 68149/26/06Would it be ill advised to write a screenplay centered around a popular toy product? The toy is the foundation of the story. Thanks in advance! Christine Valada
# 68019/21/06Re:#6797 Thanks, Christine, I may seem stubborn, but I highly appreciate your advice! I understand your points, the problem is, the line seems quite thin between illegal or independent... There are millions of stories out there more or less famous/similar... How can one be aware of them all. I mean, from a scriptwriter's point (even more for a beginner) it seems almost impossible to stay either unabusing or unabused... It's so demotivating!... Christine Valada
# 68009/20/06I have a great story to tell based on true stituations, but I do not know how to write. I have been named the creator/co-writer of a screenplay/script the other co-writer who is the professional wants me to sign an agreement of 50% profits for me and 50% profits for her. What is a customary profit sharing for the creator/co-witer and the other co-writer. Other wording to be included in the agreement? Thank you Christine Valada
# 67989/20/06When a screenplay is purchased who is legally responsible further? The purchaser? For example if my screenplay gets purchased from a production company, does it mean that all legal burdens regarding copyright claims transfer to them or the screenwriter still preserves certain responsibility also? Christine Valada
# 67979/20/06Re: #6790 I don't understand how exactly "independent creation" is defined. How can you consider a screenplay independent when another piece of art exists - for example there is Batman, Superman and Spiderman, if I am to write a script for another man-superhero- Cocroachman for instance, would it be considered independent creation or similarity would be copyright infringing? (BTW, just to make it clear: in #6790 I wrote "world INfamous", not "famous" :) ) Christine Valada
# 67919/19/06Re: #6765 I know I have to register first. My question was, should I register an outline or a treatment before the screenplay, to outpace possible similar projects in development until my script is finished. Sorry if my English is the reason for misunderstanding the question. Christine Valada
# 67909/19/06Re:#6767: OK,Batman was a bad example,but what if my story is similar to a world infamous short story,known only to it's writer?... but still similar and existing, on the Internet or in the bookstore�or old film previously made� or unproduced screenplay�or just partially similar to a famous movie� Sorry to be such a bore, but I am interested in these issues in principle� where exactly is the edge of copyright infringement� how is it defined� Christine Valada
# 67719/14/06Is obtaining the rights to a foreign film more costly and difficult than getting the remake clearance to a film that was produced in the US? Christine Valada
# 67709/14/06Where can one go to find out who owns the rights to a particular film? Christine Valada
# 67679/13/06Let me put #6759 differently: What if I've UNINTENTIONALLY written a script somehow similar to "Batman", but I've never seen Batman although it exists (as thousands of other stories). How does copyright law distinguish intentional (plagiaristic) from unintentional similarities? You say elements of copyright infringement are ACESS and SIMILARITY � here we have similarities and the movie is available for everyone to see it � how do I prove I've not "ACCESSED"/seen/ it? Christine Valada
# 67669/13/06Hi Christine, Actually there were two sub-questions in my #6760: 1/ What would you recommend as the best way for a beginner to protect his work (regardless of nationality, I meant the USA/Hollywood practices)? And 2/ (speaking of nationality) � Would it be harder for a foreigner to protect his copy rights in USA and break into Hollywood? Thanks! Christine Valada
# 67659/13/06Hi, I know that I can register a treatment. My question is (following #6761) what is the minimum registrable piece of work? Can I register a 3-page outline for example or even a synopsis and would that be considered sound copyright evidence or not much? Would you recommend registration of smaller pieces of work (Outline, Treatment) (to outpace similar projects) or I'd better concentrate on writing and register, only when the script is ready? Christine Valada
# 67619/12/06Hello, I have an idea in development and afterwards I will write the first draft of my script. This however will take time. Would you recommend meanwhile copyright protection of my idea (in the form of an Outline or other) before the final draft is ready, in order to outpace possible similar projects in development? Or should I think about protection only after I am ready with my final draft? Thanks for your helpful advice! Christine Valada
# 67609/12/06Hi, What would you recommend to a non-US based (say Eastern European like me) beginner scriptwriter as the best way to protect his/her work and intellectual rights when trying to break in the movie business? Your advice will be much appreciated. Thanks! Christine Valada
# 67599/12/06What if I write a screenplay and subsequently (or even after I have registered my work) I find that a script or a movie with a similar concept already exists? What about similar stories/concepts which already exist, but the writer is not aware of?... Christine Valada
# 66788/3/06Hi Christine, I contacted a major LA Based Latin Music Perfomer/Writer and Her Partner who co-wrote the song, for permission to use their song in my short film which they granted in writing, It's now in the hands of the NY based Music Producer. I am trying to get a Sync/Master Agreement with the Producer, do I need to know anything else? Thanks very much. Christine Valada
# 66657/29/06 So if I wrote a script with a co-writer, but sell it under my name only, what can happen? I could always give him half the money. Christine Valada
# 66597/24/06 After months writing with a co-writer, we have a good script. I started marketing it and have prodco's looking at it, now my co-writer will no longer communicate with me in any way. A development exec just left word for me to call him about the script. If my co-writer refuses to communicate with me and this exec wants to buy it, can I still sell it? Christine Valada
# 66487/22/06Christine, can a screenwriter put a song in their screenplay that is already copyrighted? For example: "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes". I read that you should only REFER to anything protected by copyright and elminate putting it in a script. Any help is greatly appreciated. Christine Valada
# 66427/13/06I am in the process of obtaining the rights to a 96 year-old's life story. Do you know of any good online resources/examples that could guide me in writing the agreement, i.e., the language to be used? (I assume that good and valuable consideration is required.) Thank you for your time and assistance. Jen Christine Valada
# 66417/8/06I am in the process of writing an autobiography. My question is do I need to obtain any sort of rights if I mention a copyrighted countrymusic artist? Christine Valada
# 66407/8/06Dear Christine, I'd like to know a few things: 1) I plan to adapt a story I like. I need the author's permission..but what about the publisher's? 2) Let's assume, the author is no longer living, and the publisher has either closed down, gone bankrupt, or no longer holds the rights to the book. Can this now be freely adapted, of course, acknowledging the author.. 3) Let's assume that the author is dead, but the publisher holds the rights... Regards, Jack Christine Valada
# 66336/30/06Dear Christine, I have recently sent in my original screenplay to a production company, and they saw its potential and have stated that there is enormous scope to set it up as an international coproduction. However, the budget was deemed too high for the company. Now they are asking to "option" it off me for three years. What should I settle for? $5,000 ? And what are my contingent compensations, or bonuses? Thanks very much, AK Christine Valada
# 66256/23/06Is it possible to have more than one agent? Christine Valada
# 66216/20/06Hi Christine, I've written a 90 page docu-drama about a very famous person on spec. I tried getting permission from his family to market and sell this screenplay, but no response from them. My screenplay's main character (unfortunately) is no longer alive. How do I go about marketing and selling my work without permission from his family? Can you explain any legal problems I might have along the way. Thank you for your response. Christine Valada
# 66176/19/06There was a screenplay written in 1979 about my great great uncle. It was never made into a movie, but was written by a renowned director who is deceased. How can I find out who currently owns the screenplay as my family and I would love to read it? Christine Valada
# 65656/5/06A company has contracted to re-do a PD TV series. At the client's demand, we'll re-voice script word for word and lay in oom-papah band music to replace the famous score. Client intends to market it under its original title. I've warned them they should be more concerned with trade mark law than ASCAP. Sounds like FOX V DASTAR FOX without being "transformative." Your opinion? Christine Valada
# 65215/21/06Dear CV: I've partially shot a show referring to a stolen Picasso, planning to use an obscure b/w litho I have, Pygmalion & Galatea. It would be seen for a maybe 6 seconds. The estate is protective of the material. If I adapted it-- i.e., colored it, changed some basic lines-- in the ficitional context of a non-competitive creation (my film), would this be considered a derivitive work? Christine Valada
# 65195/19/06Hi Christine I am making a short film 11pp, and some of the characters interact with realistic full size sex dolls available for consumer purchase-the dolls faces depict actual porn stars Jenna James, Aria Giovanni, Tera Patrick, Ashton Moore, etc... do I need to get clearance from the manufacturer to use these dolls in my movie Thank-you. Christine Valada
# 65185/19/06Hi Christine, I am film maker making a short comedy, 11 pp. The comedy will involve Mambo music and dancing, do I need to clear this produced music before I add it to my soundtrack. It is easier to clear it or come up with original Mambo music? Thank-You Christine Valada
# 65085/12/06re: QUESTION #6503 I understand keeping up with decisions and intricities of law. That's the straightforward part. I meant, how do you answer some of these questions with a straight face? Some are precise, arcane, thoughtful, troubling... but the others...! Christine Valada
# 65055/11/06What steps need to be made to aquire the rights of material adapted from a song? Do you have to go to the actual author or the company that owns the rights to the song? Christine Valada
# 65035/8/06Dear Christine, I haven't perused your board in months, but I have an awe-struck question. How do you do it? I mean... how... do you ... do it? In admiration, TN Christine Valada
# 65005/6/06I'm getting into the producing side of things for a low budget independent and casually put together a production company name like so many do. Do I have to do anything official like create an LLC or contact anyone or just keep things casual and simply use the name I chose? Thanks, Bob Christine Valada
# 64985/5/06A book has been published, a screenwriter is interested to create a screenplay out of it. This screenwritter already has 2 movies produced from his screenplays. What would be the logistic of the contract between the screenwritter and the author. Is it a pourcentage of an eventual movie profit? Is there a cash down? I assume the author keeps the rights to his book. Thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 64604/25/06Dear Mrs Valada, I wrote a script about a man's real life but, at the same time, I realized another film about the same subject - this one fiction - will be release around the same date as mine. I just wanted to avoid any problems. Do you suggest maybe contacting the other production house (studio) or what is the best way to work this out. Thanks for your answer Annie Producer/Scriptwriter Christine Valada
# 64544/23/06I have a completed short documentary on lasers. In revising it for the future I would like to use brief clips (most under 15 seconds) from movies such as Star Wars, War of the Worlds (1951 version) and Goldfinger as a way of illustrating light in fiction and contrasting with very real light of lasers. It is prohibitive to pay for the rights. What about using these clips under "fair use" provision of copyright? Christine Valada
# 64424/15/06Do you have to get written permission from a movie studio in order to quote a short dialogue from the movie in a book? (I am the author) I understand that in order to quote song lyrics one has to ask permission, but I am not sure about a short dialogue that I have written down from watching a movie. (Both movies are post-1989) Thank you. Christine Valada
# 64404/15/06I have a book as well as a script in the making of MY True Life Story. Can I use real names of people involved in MY trial, if I use only information made public in newspaper articles and court transcripts? Should I change the names of my friends? I will be writing personal accountings between us. Should I change the names of my children? Thanks Theresa J. Christine Valada
# 64354/12/06I enjoy a lawyer of few words, but the answer to my previous question might be more helpful with an explanation why? TIA Christine Valada
# 64334/11/06Is it a good idea to click the "accept" button for an online one-sided release form to be able to submit movie ideas for a prominent pitch man to market for you? TIA Christine Valada
# 64093/27/06Hello,please I will like to know how I can get a good movie producer who can work with or buy astory that I've written for movie production.The story is that of an action film and it is very intiguing.I will be pleased to see your reply.Thanks. Christine Valada
# 63743/18/06I was wondering what I have to do to be able to adapt a diary by a man who has been dead for about 60 years, he has living family though. Do I need to get rights because he is a public figure and anyone would know the information I am writing about, its public knowledge, published on the internet and in archives in a library. Thanks for your help. Christine Valada
# 63643/11/06Can i write a screenplay based loosely on the life and times of historical characters without seeking some type of permission. The characters existed in eighteenth century England. Christine Valada
# 63463/11/06I have written a sexual screenwriting. If you deal this kind of screenwriting please contact to me or introduce sites & agencies that deal sexual screenwriting or how I can sell my screenwriting. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 63443/7/06how do i sell my script/book to professionals? Christine Valada
# 63222/28/06Grizzmilking, is avalible internationally though Ingram. Over the counter at Barnes and Noble,Borders,Amazon.com. Please, if you have any pointers to help turn this silly book into a script I would be very gratfull.[801]-654-1119 Christine Valada
# 63042/26/06Hello, If someone wants me to send my copywritten screenplay, what do I need to do to ensure the safety of my script? I don't have an agent or lawyer. Christine Valada
# 63032/26/06Should one have more than one screenplay finished before sending it to an agency? Christine Valada
# 62922/22/06I'm putting the final polish on my screenplay. When the time comes, should I seek an Entertainment Attorney located in or near Hollywood? The reason I ask is because I live in Pittsburgh, PA. Or should I even consider trying to find a competent Entertainment Attorney in Pittsburgh? I'm not sure of all the pros and cons for having an Entertainment Attorney close to Hollywood versus having one in Pittsburgh. Christine Valada
# 62672/16/06I have an idea for a talk show. I have a production company interested; what's the normal back-end if he funds the pilot? I want to be co-executive producer and own most it. What's the split for me, him and the two producers? I can fund it myself (8 grand), but need this production company's clout so it's not me selling me to the networks! What should I be careful to discuss contractually? Christine Valada
# 62352/11/06where can i buy the movie by lucille ball called bag lady? Christine Valada
# 61841/31/06My script has recently had the option Exercised for which I received a payment. I am due a further fee on the first day of principle photography. I have now been told that the investors have pulled out and they might not make the film. What happens to the rights to my film?? Unfortuatenly there was no reversions clause and now someone else is interested in producing it? Thanks Christine Valada
# 61801/30/06Had an "option to purchase" contract a while ago with a producer that actually made the script into a movie. He then decided not to release the movie because of creative concerns. The option expired and the rights to the script are mine again. Do I have the right to ask for copies of the movie or the right to distribute it myself now? Christine Valada
# 61371/25/06When you write a script how do you know how long it is. I mean how many hours or whatever and I would like to know how I do you know if it well get people out of thier socks. Christine Valada
# 61351/24/06we shot a music video for an artist, they liked it then didnt use it. they filmed another one with another company but took footage from our video and used it in the new one without asking or paying. They paid for our equipment hire and use but not for the material shot. Can we sue? Christine Valada
# 61331/23/06Wow. Thanks for answering my tax question so fast. JC Christine Valada
# 61321/23/06Dear Christine, My question concerns how I'm taxed when I option a screenplay. Last year I received 3,500.00 for an option on one of my screenplays. How should I have been taxed on this? I'm thinking as a capitol gain and that my accountant did it wrong. JC Christine Valada
# 61221/17/06Christine, thanks again for taking the time on posts #6115/6116. Your effort provides many of us the spring board needed to continue in the best direction. Much thanks. Christine Valada
# 61191/15/06hey im courtney and i am really into acting and singing. i recon i can go places with my talent but i dont no where to begin so that people will notice me. i have done many productions and singing concerts but i want to go much further. i want to no how to get onto movies or shows like home and away. do you no how? thanks a lot Courtney (p.s i am 14) Christine Valada
# 61161/13/06Thanks so much to your reply in #6115 Christine. A few final Q's: 1) I realize $ = Win in court, but shouldn't we be protected as we'd need to have had both Access and Similarity to their content?, 2) Does the fact that I'm an Audio production mean the WGA doesn't apply to our content?, 3) Can an LLC protect us individually from those lurking with deep pockets in #1? Again, THANKS for all your efforts. Christine Valada
# 61151/12/06Christine, I am looking to produce a small audio book type piece with an unpublished writer. We both are eager to get the the piece produced but want to make sure that we are protected. Is the WGA registration/signatory process the *only* enforceable protection from future claims that the story was derived from someone else, OR (since he is the original writer) does a standard Copyright notice protect our investment? Any help would be appreciated! Christine Valada
# 61141/10/06I am writing a screenplay closely based on an intimate relationship I had 35 years ago. By changing names and locations I can be pretty sure noone but myself and the other principals would recognize the story or characters. I am way out of contact with these people. Do I have any legal problems here? Christine Valada
# 61011/5/06Just a follow up when you speak of similarity, what are you speaking of identical plot, characters, dialogue, action sequences, number of character, the location is significantly different but the theme seems to be identical. This a small Indie House in Toronto. Thanks again Dan Christine Valada
# 60981/4/06Hi Christine, 1 year ago, I copyrighted my screenplay in U.S., and Canada, and Reg with WGAW, and sent it to Prod Comp. They liked it, it went all the way to top producer, they passed because they wanted to make in a different country... Now, I see they have taken snippits and characters from my story and made a new story that's in development, do I have any recourse? Thankyou. Christine Valada
# 60931/2/06I just offered a writer/agent an option for a book. The book is out of print with no success. They countered with a floor of 150K for the puchase price. They want 1k the 1st year, 1K the 2nd, and 5K the third for the yearly option fee. I feel that the option price of 150K is way out of line. How should we determine a fair puchase price? Please offer any advice. Christine Valada
# 608712/29/05If my brother suggested an idea for a screenplay but I wrote the screenplay and got my movie produced what percentage of my earnings should I give to my brother since he gave me the initial idea? Christine Valada
# 608612/29/05Am adapting an old(1975) science fiction/fantasy book for the screen. It's out of print and the author died last year. I don't believe it was among her top sellers and estate says rights are available. She was pretty well known in the genre and a solid hit movie was made of another book of hers years back. Can you give a ballpark of what percentage of possible future action($) I should offer the estate? Christine Valada
# 606812/15/05Hi, My question is business related. ive heard that stars love to buy acrylic furniture. We have a manufacturing unit of acrylic furniture, and we export it. The furniture is very hi-end. My question is, how do i go about selling these products to the stars. Please visit our site www.irusindia.com. Thanks Christine Valada
# 606512/13/05 I have written film-version on the Mikhail Bulgakovs novel " The Master and Margarita ". The film-version is translated on English Natalia Bukreeva. Film-version " The Master and Margarita " - a material not only about Russia. So to think - the big mistake. Film-version " The Master and Margarita " has deep philosophical sense. This theme interests you? Christine Valada
# 606012/9/05I want to write a screenplay of an obscure novel published back in the 1970s. The author died so I'm planning on calling the publisher. My goals: showing my work to others, perhaps entering contests and eventually selling it. As I'm well aware of the chances of my dreams coming true, is there any possibility they will give me the permission for little or no up front money? How should I approach them with this? Christine Valada
# 605912/8/05Christine, I am writing a book that will be critical of a corporation, and will have to query them for their side of the story. I worry that they will then derail my efforts to get published by threating a lawsuit. Are libel claims relevant to publishers only, or can authors also be prosecuted? How should I protect myself? Do laws vary between states? Can an individual take out a Media Perils Policy? Christine Valada
# 603711/28/05If your agent (as a writer) negotiates your agreements for you, then what's the attorney's role? Christine Valada
# 603311/26/05Hi Christine, I received a 250+ pg. indie script as a 1st time screenwriter, hired w/another to do a rewrite for $2k (we must split)-low! Rewrite due mid/Dec. "Independent Contractors Agreement" given doesn't protect us - 2 pages of vague terms. We need to guarantee rewrites/polish to make up $$$ when made into a Pic. What money/rights are we entitled to, since we are hired to do a rewrite of someone else�s work? Christine Valada
# 603211/25/05Christine, I'm writing a screenplay about a couple of historical figures, and am using their letters and biographies, though my story will take creative liberties. My question essentially is: Do I need to option the rights to all of these sources? Some of them? Or none? The subjects in question have been dead for at least 100 years, and though the biographies and writings are covered by copyright I don't know of any surviving family members. Christine Valada
# 603011/24/05I wrote a script where I have a character singing a song in the shower. He says exactly this: "Who let the dogs out? Who, who, who, who? Who let the ..." He doesn't say anymore about the song. Do I have to get permission to use that? If not, where can I get a list of songs I can use for free? Christine Valada
# 602811/23/05I have literary representation and I am in the process of selling a screenplay. Do I still need to retain an attorney? Christine Valada
# 602711/22/05i have an idea for a movie. new in the business and do not know how to submit my story. how would i go about this? Christine Valada
# 602311/20/05Hi, I am about to make a movie in which a group of us go caroling and sing a song. Is this legal to do? am i allowed to sing the song? or do i have to put the information of the song in the credits? are the rules different for song we sing compared to songs i put in the background? Please help me. Thank you. Christine Valada
# 600711/18/05Dear Christine, We have signed a co production agreement with a US writer/producer. He had been in talks with another producer but has signed with us instead. The other producer is claiming he has legal rights to be invloved in the project and that he has a draft contract that WE sent him, that is only signed by him and not correct paperwork from the attorney of the writer/producer. Christine Valada
# 600011/16/05Hi, I have identical twin little girls who are 1 1/2 years old. They are cuban mexican...very fair skin, light brown hair, hazel eyes and not because I am their mom but very pretty. So they are kind of in the middel not to light not to dark actually can look american, latino or european. How could I get them in the business if at all? Christine Valada
# 597711/8/05Follow-up to #5974. I hate to pester you, but can you be specific about what part of my query the 1st Amendment covers? Actually, about the using the names of celebrities and movie titles in my characters' dialogue? Thanks a lot, Christine. Christine Valada
# 597411/7/05Is it legal, without permission, to have various movies and their writers/directors mentioned in the characters' dialogue? What about movie posters, and other memorabilia? Also, in wriitng the script, in the description lines, is it legal to, when describing an action or appearance of a character, compare the character and/or its action(s) to a real-life celebrity, like an a martial-arts action star, for example? Christine Valada
# 592910/25/05I am writing the true story of my grandfather who was a missionary to the Naga headhunters in NE India (1920s-1950s). An A lister's agent at ICM wants to see the script when it's finished. I want to keep as much creative control as possible. I realize there will be rewrites and that's fine. My question is this: How does a screewriter attach themself as "Writer/Producer" to their project. Does producing always involve financing? Christine Valada
# 591910/16/05Hello I was wondering if you would be so kind as to provide me with sites that help with creating biography's. I have one but I'm not sure if I'm saying too much or too little. I would like for my bio to be precise. Thanks for your help. Kelly B. Christine Valada
# 58929/19/05Hello Christine. After selling a script, is a screenwriter allowed to turn the script into a novel before the film get made? Christine Valada
# 58909/13/05hey- i've been offered a contract from a florida based agency. the only thing is she wants $75/ mo. for "administration fees". is this the norm? and is it even worth it signing with an agency outside of l.a. or new york? thanks a bunch. Christine Valada
# 58879/8/05(In the US, mailing your work to yourself, poor mans copywrite and WGA registration)Is there an organizational equal to the WGA in Canada to protect your work? Christine Valada
# 58798/31/05A very small production company wants scripts submitted through an agent or a lawyer only (I realize this is supposed to protect them from infringement suits and limit the number of submissions). I graduated from law school 3 months ago and have been asked to submit a screenplay to this production company. What liabilities might I incur by doing so? Christine Valada
# 58768/26/05Dear Christine, A screenplay I wrote is adapted from a book published in the 1930s, that is now out of print. The book's author is deceased, as is his spouse. I've copyrighted the script, but I wonder if I need permission from the deceased author's family -- if any exist -- before closing any deal to sell my script. Thanks, Anthony Hicks Christine Valada
# 58708/23/05My partner & I are splitting acrimoniously. He has suggested dividing 2 projects we're working on 50-50, each to the originator. Our contract allows co-equal decisions & I accepted. But I have good reason to think he is going to claim rights in my project. I put the phrase "Both parties acknowledge the project is speculative and no payment is offered by either party to the other." Still, I worry... Christine Valada
# 58638/18/05After delivering 4 drafts of an optioned script a prod company terminated my contract but claim they still own the option and they would assign a new writer to develop the script in addition they were to give the new writer the credit. If they breached the contract do I get the rights to my screenplay back? Can they make the film if they have not paid me the full purchase price. Christine Valada
# 58578/16/05Dear Christine, I'm a uk producer and was part of a partnership when my partner wrote a script, i ammended it and he re-wrote and I took the project forward to be produced. he has gone of to work with someone else and claims that I cannot carry on producing this as he wrote it origionally although the copyright is to our old partnership.Am I within my rights to carry on with this project? Christine Valada
# 58388/5/05The Chatsworth suggestion made me laugh outloud; probably the best advice possible. It brings up a question from me. Given that 1) most of those are shot without scripts, 2) those that DO have them pay maybe $300 bucks, & 3) the not-much-higher paid gigs are always taken by in house guys-- gee, Christine-- why would anybody WANT to? Christine Valada
# 58358/5/05Dear Christine: How does one go about pitching scripts for the adult film industry?--Who should be contacted, where can sample scripts be obtained, etc.? Thanks. --Robert Christine Valada
# 58348/4/05In reference to question #5832...thank you so much for answering it so quickly! You are the first person who's "set the record straight" for me. I was never quite sure, since not owning the rights to the book, that I could even approach the studio at all... Now hypothetically, should the studio get a copy...could they simply use it and legally not have to pay me? Thanks again!! Christine Valada
# 58328/3/05Hi, I need some real clarification! I hope you can help. Long story short, what started as a harmless challenge to myself resulted in a complete and WGA registered script for that other famous book by Tolkien. I know the studio already has the movie rights to the novel, but can I still legally pitch my script adaptation to them? (Should they give me a chance to do so...) Christine Valada
# 58227/31/05if a film production company is wga compliant or suppose to be, ask for (50K) for development? should any production ask for money at all? after providing the 50K they want another 50K. any advice what can i do get get the rights back to my work and the 50K. deceptive practices used. any legal recourse? any entertainment lawyer who may look and take on my case? anyone i can contact at wga? Christine Valada
# 58047/23/05Hey Christine, I have a producer pitching a script of mine to a cable network for a possible TV movie. If they like the pitch, then it will be optioned and developed. My question is... what kind of money would I get for an option of that sort (rough estimate)? Christine Valada
# 57797/18/05Good evening, Christine. I'm going to NY in two weeks and I want to use the oportunity to spread my screenplays through a few production companies. However, they're registered in my home country, Portugal. Should I also register them in the US? If so, would the WGA be the best option, considering they're all spec? And, finally, are there any requirements I should consider, regarding that I'm not a US citizen? Thank you in advance! Christine Valada
# 57657/11/05Is it legal to copyright your script and register it with the wga? A friend told me that it would be a good idea.:) Christine Valada
# 57627/10/05Christine: A couple months ago, I signed a non-exclusive contract with someone to rep my script. It provided him with a sliding scale payment based on the pre-production budget. Now suddenly he wants me to sign an exclusive agreement with a sliding scale based on the entire budget. I'm trying to figure out what gives. Any ideas? Thanks so much! Christine Valada
# 57607/8/05Re #5592. There's a rival project; the producer asked my partner to do an interview, & be portrayed; got a deal with biggies. The episode previously inspired a novel (the writer was there) & a comic based on Fellini's script, wildly non-factual, representing her as a character. I advised her to put the producer on notice; cooperate but reserve the right to do our own take as well. Suggestions? Christine Valada
# 57597/5/05Good evening, Christine. I needed to know if it's common - or even legal -for a doctor to ask a minor to identify his mother's body, considering that all other known relatives are either dead or live very far away. If not, what would be standard procedure? Thank you for your time! Christine Valada
# 57546/29/05I posted a log-line on a couple sites hoping for some feedback. I've had several "Producers" contact me. Most haven't replied after I sent the screenplay but a few are asking if they can use it in a "Low-budget" project. What will I be giving up in the way of screen writes etc... if I agree to let them use my screenplay? And, other than using an attorney, what safeguards should a use? Christine Valada
# 57336/16/05I'm writing a coming of age screenplay based on a trip to a foreign country that I went on with my high school. I went on this trip twice and plan on combining the two experiences into one. Is combining the two trips, combining some of the characters, and adding some fictionalized "scenes" keeping me safe from lawsuits? Thanks, Chris Christine Valada
# 57246/13/05Dear Christine: This is a follow-up to question #5518. I'm worried I may not be able to use the story. My protagonist is a relative of the copyrighted character, and my protagonist's goal involves the fate the copyrighted character met in the movie. In essence, this is sort of a continuation of the universe the writer created. What if I only pitch it to the production company of the said writer-director? Christine Valada
# 56896/4/05I recently found a writing partner who has agreed to turn my treatment into a screenplay. I don't know much about the person other than I like his previous work. I am not sure what steps to take to protect my work incase it does not work out. also at what stage should we wga register it has a screenplay. should I sign/agree to anything without seeing firstdraft? should I specify a time for it to be completed by? Christine Valada
# 56615/25/05I entered into "writer for hire" contract, low budget film. My manager said that I would recieve Commencement payment due upon signing. No check. Following week, no check. Manager makes excuse for producer. A few more days, another excuse. I met the first deadline on time. 3 lame excuses by now including one by my manager.."this is standard in the biz. Studio writers wait weeks sometime" Help? Christine Valada
# 56465/13/05It's time to renegotiate my option and things have heated up and funding is in place but there is a hitch -- I pitched sequels and not interested in writing them until the first one is made. The producers have been selling it based on the idea that it's a trilogy. Can I put something in my contract in regards to the sequels? I don't even know if I have rights in regards to sequels. Christine Valada
# 56445/12/05I am (actuallly - have been asked to) writing a book - a true story - about a person who is incarcerated for murder. He is willing to tell me, and only me, the whole true story. What do I need to do in order to gain access to him for the time needed? Christine Valada
# 56415/11/05Hello Christine,A HUGELY successful Hollywood trilogy left a lot of fans extremely dissapointed by it's conclusion.I want to write a screenplay using all the characters from the original movies,based on my original ideas addressing all the areas that fans wanted to see covered.How do I persue my desire.What can & ca'nt I do in this situation.Thank you. Christine Valada
# 56395/9/05I understand that all production companies or individuals should be researched before submitting scripts, but it seems that many on here and on other sites cannot really be verified. If a screenplay is registered or copyrighted, would it still be a problem to submit it to them? Because a lot of companies who may be reputable would be excluded because they don't have a website, or much other information. Christine Valada
# 56375/8/05Hello Chrisine, I would like to acquire screenplay rights to an outdated computer game (A rather large company ended up with them de facto after a company sale). I have no money or credits to my name, but would still like to pull a young Bill Gates and brazenly ask. Have you ever heard of this being done successfully? Also, is there anything I might use to negotiate with other than money? Thank You, A Hopelessly Brash Upstart Christine Valada
# 56325/3/05hOW CAN YOU TELL IF A PERSON IS CONTROLLING Christine Valada
# 56264/30/05I wrote a screenplay based on the lyrics of a song. The song tells a story and I took that premise and expanded it into a feature. Do I own all the rights to my screenplay? Do I need to contact the song publisher concerning rights? Christine Valada
# 56254/29/05I shot a movie (my first) without getting one actress's signature on her contract and release. She did the movie, including a topless scene. Now she's refusing to sign until she sees the final cut. She may hold out for more money or cut approval. Do I have a valid argument that since she did the movie, the contract offered has weight and she gave implied consent? Or does she have me over a barrel? Christine Valada
# 56194/25/05I want to start a small business and for my product I would like to use lines from movies such as "I'd turn back if I were you." Are lines from movies covered by copywrite laws? If so, how do you get permission to use them? Thank You Christine Valada
# 56094/15/05my name is shannon and i'm writing a book on my life.i survived incest,rape,domestic violence,and now chasing my dreamof music.wheni write my book do i need to change names ? example ,the abuser's! Christine Valada
# 56044/13/05I am a young screenwriter without an agent or legal representation. The producer who would like to hire me has asked me to come up with a Writer for Hire Contract that meets the terms he has proposed. Where can I find an attorney, or agent that will provide me with this kind of agreement in a timely fashion? Christine Valada
# 55924/7/05(Jumping from Fields to Fellini): a partner of mine spent time in the company of Fellini and a some odd characters 20 years ago. I'd consider the director fair game as a public figure, but without getting releases from the others (now scattered, and probably not going to be portrayed flatteringly), would you suggest we'd be on firmer ground making unrecognizable composites? Christine Valada
# 55914/7/05Dear Christine, Regarding #5569, copyrighting jokes & gags apparently goes back a long way; a recent bio of WC Fields detailed scores of sketches, bits and gags, which were often subject to suits in later years. Christine Valada
# 55904/6/05Dear Christine, Thank you so much for answering my many previous questions.When I register a screenplay at the copyright office does it actually get read by someone at the copyright office?Can the public read it after it is copyrighted or is it secured in the same way as a WGA registered document? Christine Valada
# 55844/5/05A UK prod. company wants to try and sell to brit TV two 60 min. docs on a group I run. We have compiled a great deal of footage and are capable of cutting together a finished product ourselves.Do we need them?If so, what kind of a cut should they expect.I understand every deal is different, but I'm looking for a range.They'd essentialy be acting as an agent under this scenario. Christine Valada
# 55794/4/05 I got a hold of the author of a short story and he was flattered that I would make his short stroy into a film. How should I write or format my literary option for him to sign the film rights over to me for a low-budget independent student short film that will go into film festivals for cash prizes? I think he will do it for free, too. Christine Valada
# 55694/1/05Dear Christine, I have no idea who created most of the jokes I've heard over the years.If my characters use some of them in my screenplays and I register at WGA and the Copyright office and eventually sell some of the screenplays do I risk legal problems?How is this usually handled?Do comedians hold the copyright because they tell these jokes professionally? Christine Valada
# 55643/31/05I�m writing a series pilot that involves a radio talk show host/author. Recently, I've heard that a talk show host is going to live out my idea in real life. It's a unique idea. Should I finish my script or am I looking at legal problems down the road? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 55633/31/05What is the legal procedure (in any state) for declaring someone incompetent or unable to take care of themselves? Christine Valada
# 55513/25/05#5545 follow up: First tnx for your answers. I was wondering if it's totally not allowed to use dialogue from other movies. It is not allowed to copy and paste? But what if you want to give the dialogue the same feeling as the dialogue from another movie. Satire uses a lot from other movies. Some dialogue is movie specific and some is general right? Christine Valada
# 55453/24/05Hi, could you please explain what you exactly mean by 'The key is that ideas can't be copyrighted, scenes a faire can't be copyrighted, but expressions can, and if you use expression, you're in trouble.' What are scenes a faire and what are expressions. Is an expression like a line from a movie? How specific is it? Many Tnx. Christine Valada
# 55403/22/05I wrote a spec script on a true story that happened in 1894 of a natural disaster. All of my resources came from libraries and microfilm. Do I need to acquire any release forms for grandchildren(if any)from the characters that are in my script? Christine Valada
# 55313/17/05Dear Christine, This is in reference to #5527 and #5521.If I register at WGA and copyright office without obtaining any rights,and distribute copies,could there be any grounds at all to sue me?I worry thatI might be sued even if I don't sell the script.I am using real names of dead and alive people as per questions#5527 and#5521,plus I use copyrighted lyrics. Thanks for the help. Christine Valada
# 55273/16/05Dear Christine, My script has a character based on a living person,I may even use his name.Can I register at WGA and copyright office without obtaining his permission or would this be cause for a lawsuit? Is this common practice?Does it hinder a possible sale? Thank you Christine Valada
# 55213/15/05Dear Christine, If I use the character of say Frank Sinatra in a screenplay and also have a character mimic Frank Sinatra to a point and singing one of Sinatras songs could I copyright and register the screenplay before obtaining any rights without being in violation of anything, or would I be better off using an imaginary singer legally.I think using Sinatra would make it more attractive to a reader but perhaps not. Christine Valada
# 55183/14/05Dear Christine: How can I get permission to incorporate a writer-director's character into my speculative script?--What I mean is: the character wouldn't actually appear, but be made reference to (by name) several times during the story--my protagonist's quest would pertain to this character. Think you can help? Thanks for your time. --Robert Christine Valada
# 55143/10/05Hi Christine, I was wondering if it is allowed to use brandnames in your script such as Ferrari or Lexus or Nokia. Sometimes brands define character-personalities. Can you have somebody working at a Lexus-company for example? Or is this kind of stuff only important when you sell the screenplay? TNX Christine Valada
# 55003/6/05thank you for your response in regards to question #5499. the singer in question did NOT give permission for photo usage on the card and they are considering legal action as well. although i retained full copyrights to the images, i didn't register them with the copyright office (oversight on my part!!) Christine Valada
# 54993/5/05i was the photographer for a singer while he was receiving his star on the hollywood walk of fame. as per my agreement with management, they were able to put my images up on their site. the company Starline, which makes trading cards, saved one of my images from the artists site and they are using it on a card. i cant find any info on starline. does this sound like something worth pursuing? Christine Valada
# 54973/4/05I'm filling out a copyright form and it asks for the "Date of Creation". Is that the date I started my script, the year I registered a draft of it with WGA, or the date I completed a different version of the script? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 54953/2/05Hi Christine, I submitted 2 screenplays to US Copyrights office, the first was back in Late July, and the 2nd in Oct. In Nov, I received word that I needed to send a US Int money order not an American money order, (I'm in Canada), as of this week, Mar 05, I have yet to hear if my material's been registered and I can't get any info even via their dbase? Christine Valada
# 54923/2/05Good morning Christine, I have a screenplay in the hands of an agent. I also want to make it a book. Do I just need to copyright the book to protect my rights to it if the screenplay sells? Thanks, Diane Christine Valada
# 54903/1/05I'm running a grant program for teenagers on screenwriting. Can I use loglines, synopsis, or screenplays for educational purposes? Any help is appreciated. Christine Valada
# 54883/1/05You mention paying for a search to find out if a book is in public domain. Can you tell me how to go about doing this. Thanks, MF Christine Valada
# 54873/1/05You mention paying for a search to find out if a book is in public domain. Can you tell me how to go about doing this. Thanks, MF Christine Valada
# 54742/21/05Dear Christine, My screenplay contains characters who are deceased and famous.Also other characters mimic the dead characters but still retain thier own identities to a point. To register and sell this screenplay do I need any permissions? Christine Valada
# 54732/21/05I have a spec script that is roughly based on my journey. Part of my journey has been in advertising, which I've written in the story. I am using real agency and client company names. For example BBDO and Pepsi. Do I have to get company rights to use their names? Christine Valada
# 54582/15/05I was hired for a pay-for-hire to pen a feature screenplay. The producer is in breech of contract and now I will file a lawsuit agianst the producer. I was never paid, so my question is do I own the character rights and the story rights? The script and title is copyrighted under my name. The screenplay is loosely based on the producers intial notes. Christine Valada
# 54261/30/05I want to write a screenplay about a woman who died 5 years ago. I learned most of her story from an article in a British Tribune, the rest from the website her husband updates. My question is about aquiring rights. Do I need to acquire rights through her husband, the writer of the article, or do I need rights at all as her story is out there in the public domain? Christine Valada
# 54031/24/05I am researching getting a "Life Story" licensed. Is there an overall pay schedule/contract, or is it individual depending on what the "character" wants for his/her story? Thank You Christine Valada
# 53971/21/05Dear Christina I have completed a rewrite of the 1960s film Send me no Flowers (Doris Day & Rock Hudson) and wondered what copywrite laws are in existence after some 40 years. Do I need to approach the studio. I have several scripts complete but this one (IN LIEU OF FLOWERS)seems to be favoured by several readers to date. You advise would be appreciated. regards Tony Christine Valada
# 53791/18/05My question is that I have alot of great ideas for movies so am wondering . How can I get my ideas known to Hollywood. Christine Valada
# 53741/15/05I know it's illegal for pro sports players to bet money on games, but is it illegal if a pro player makes a bet with a little kid on a game, but instead of money they bet, say, a Snickers bar? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 53721/15/05How does one approach a film production company to make a documentary on a personal life experience In this case my husband is a quadriplegic and we wish to make a documentary with regards to his story and new remarkable procedures that are being used to heal him? Christine Valada
# 53711/15/05How does one approach a film production company to make a documentary on a personal life experience In this case my husband is a quadriplegic and we wish to make a documentary with regards to his story and new remarkable procedures that are being used to heal him? Christine Valada
# 53701/13/05Hello Christine, I would like to submit an idea I have about office behavior to a sitcom writer. How do I get in touch with sitcom writers? Christine Valada
# 53661/13/05This is a followup to #5361. I did not get a return receipt - attempt to deliver was over a week ago. Do I try again or what? Christine Valada
# 53631/12/05I want to use a product from a web-site in a movie,(a hot with logo), and I'm wondering what I have to do in order to make this legal. Christine Valada
# 53621/12/05Hi Christine - I have a question about using a particular song in a screenplay. The song in question is a well knows 60s hit, which would be performed by a band at a wedding. It is integral to the story, particularly the protagonists character developement. Otherwise I wouldn't even be asking this question... Thanks. Christine Valada
# 53611/12/05Hi Christine: I have a 30-day clause with my agent, who has never sold a thing. I sent him a registered letter stating that I wished to end our business relationship. He has not acknowledged the letter. What more do I need to do, if anything, to make a legal separation? I don't want him popping up in the future claiming monies for properties he handled in the past. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 53451/6/05A friend and I want to write a novel on a true crime. Can we write the story without obtaining exclusive rights? Is it better to get exclusive rights from the victims? Obviously, we don't want all of our hard work to be undermined by someone who has more money and influence. Do you think we should skip the novel and go straight to a screenplay? Christine Valada
# 53431/5/05, I really need to find a good publicist for a number of reasons, most of all a documentary/publicity stunt I'm doing. Where can I find a list of decent ones?I thought you might have some good advice about how to find and things to be aware of. Kevin Christine Valada
# 53341/5/05I'm a great writer and can write amazing stories but I can't write a script to save my life. How should I go about getting into the movie writing industry? Christine Valada
# 53331/4/05Hi Christine. I plan to option the rights to a book that was written more than 10 years ago. The author is deceased. The agent for the book is waiting for my offer. Do I have to offer a set purchase price, or can I option the book with the agreement that a purchase price will be negotiated if and when there is a deal? Thanks, P.J. Christine Valada
# 53291/3/05I'm writing a historical based screenplay and was having a hard time coming up with a title, until I saw the name of a book that would be perfect. Problem is, is that the book is non-fiction and is about the same topic/era as my screenplay. Would I get in trouble for using its' title? Thanks for any help you can provide. Christine Valada
# 532212/28/04Hi Christine, I wish to write a screenplay based on a true story which occurred more than 130 years ago. All the main charcters have been dead for more than 70 years. Do I need to acquire any rights from the living relatives of these people? There have also been a few books written about them. Christine Valada
# 532012/26/04Hi Christine, With the writers permission I have rewritten parts of the script and had planned to take a writers credit. My question is how do I write my self into the option as a co-writer as well as a producer. Or do you think that it's part of the producer's job to make those touch-ups and script improvments anyway? Christine Valada
# 530312/16/04I hope to write and produce a short film based on an obscure short story written over 40 years ago. The rights are available. The short is intended for festivals. Profit is not the motive and I am willing to pay more for the rights on the back end. Question: What amount can I reasonably expect to pay up front in order to acquire the rights (not merely the option) in a situation like this? Christine Valada
# 529212/11/04Can you please tell me about A Separate Peace, its a book. i'm trying to get some answer. Can you explain the title to me and tell me is the title appropriate for the novel? Why? or why not? Christine Valada
# 528212/4/04Is it plausible that someone would keep a copy of their will at home - and not at their lawyer's office? And that there is no copy? I have it that the character's lawyer makes a copy anyway, but only reveals this later in the story. Christine Valada
# 526911/29/04Hello. I'm a screenwriter living in Sweden. My question for you is, if I'm lucky enough to sell a script to a producer in L.A, will I have to get myself a work-permit in order to make it legal? What does the law say about working in the film-industy in the U.S if you're from Sweden. As a writer.. producer.. director etc.. I mean, you go from project to project. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 525711/24/04I`ve several ideas for stories but when it comes to writing it all down i cant do it. I can write the general layout as regarding a begining middle and end and any twists that are in it but i`m no good to write the dialogue for it.I was wondering if it`s possible to give my ideas to someone else to write the dialogue script or am i doomed to try and write it myself. Christine Valada
# 525611/24/04I have acquired an option on a novel and have recently found a co-writer who will co-write a draft on spec. Can I keep my "producer's hat" on by optioning this script? How can I protect my position? Many thanks. Christine Valada
# 524611/16/04 Hi Christine, I found a supposed Entertainment Attorney on Craigslist in New York claiming he can open doors for an exceptional screenplay. He sent me a Literary Release Form to be signed and is asking for a 50.00 fee. What is your expert opinion on this??? Could this be a scam??? Thank You. Christine Valada
# 523911/13/04Hi Christine, I have a concept for a screenplay that would involve bringing a comic book character to the screen similar to what we've seen in the past with the Superman Movies, Spiderman, Bat Man etc. What would be the 1st approach to take in this respect, do I have to secure the story rights to the comic book character from the Company before I start developing my story. Thank-you for your help. Christine Valada
# 523111/4/04I'm a first time screenwriter. I'm trying to sell my script. I was wondering how much should I offer? Christine Valada
# 522411/1/04Hi Christine, How do I go about getting the rights to a foreign (Korean) film that I saw, in order to try my hand at writing an adaptation? Do the rights ALWAYS cost money? OR do they (original production company/writer) sometimes allow a new writer the rights on a "trial" basis? Thank you, Stephanie. Christine Valada
# 521610/28/04How do I go about soliciting my own material? Christine Valada
# 521510/27/04I have had my first book published. Yes, I think it would make a great movie. I live in Va. How do I get started with getting my book in front of the right people? I would rather not go the way of screenwriting. Thank you Christine Valada
# 521410/27/04A friend of mine told me a one line idea for a reality series and said I could have it. I've taken the idea and expanded it to a series. She said she wants nothing from it, but if the show is sold I think she deserves something. How should she be compensated? Christine Valada
# 518610/13/04Dear Christine, Will producers consider a half hour spec holiday animation teleplay or are they only written In House? Thanks, Rich Christine Valada
# 517810/8/04Hi Christine, I sent out a screenplay to a couple of producers in LA last month. They had me sign a release and have it notarized. It's been over 5 weeks and I have not heard a peep from them. They are not responding to emails and there's no answering service, should I be concerned? Thanks. Dan Christine Valada
# 517310/8/04Does any entertainment lawyer sell screenplays on behalf their clients solely? Or that's really an agent job to that? Christine Valada
# 51319/30/04I'm a producer aquiring the rights to a 50 min doc. I'm taking to HBO and Showtime. The rights are owned by a friend of mine so I want to make this an equitable deal. What is fair in terms of credit and money. EP plus 10% of the deal? Christine Valada
# 50869/23/04How valuable are entertainment attorney's to an unknown screenwriter as oppose to having an agent? And can most people afford an entertainment attorney? Christine Valada
# 50749/22/04A friend, who has worked in many big movies, and I would like to start up a production company (LLC) and produce a film. We have a script. If we split the cost of the attorney (3-4K) and find investors to fund the budget, what risks are there for me to be aware of? Could you please give me some ups and downs of starting a production company? Christine Valada
# 50649/15/04I titled my screenplay/film and named a restaurant in the screenplay/film after an existing business (ie. Actual business: "Jenn's Shrimp Fry" v. Location in Film: "Shrimp Fry") What are the legal ramifications, if any, in doing this? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 50619/14/04(My heart goes out to you. I read the queries; you have the patience of several saints.) An entrepreneur who does "movie making" seminars always claims he "produced" a film I own via p.o.a. from the guys who did make it, old friends of mine. Might there be grounds to sue this sackosheet for sullying the good name of "my" film? He didn't even live in the US when it was made. Christine Valada
# 50569/13/04I have some story ideas that i don't have the desire to write into a screenplay format and I want to write it into a treatment. But what is a treatment? And how you write one and how many pages should a treatment be? And who would accept a treatment? And most importantly, can you actually sell a treatment? Christine Valada
# 50479/13/04Is this Screenwriting Expo 3 worth traveling 2500 miles for? Because I have been told by a cretain producer that it's nothing more than like a job fair. Or will it be better just to mail out some brilliant queries and get notice that way? I have already paid for my reserve, but I want some clarity on this matter so I can avoid wasting any more of my money. Thank you. Christine Valada
# 50389/11/04Hi.I've just finished reading a newly released book that i know will make a great film.I'm fairly new in this game and dont have any professional credits so how do i go about getting the screenplay rights to this book.Should i contact the author first or the publisher and will they listen to me.Many thanx.Tara. Christine Valada
# 50259/5/04Hi Christine, I am just writing a reality show idea and i was wondering if having a Copyright Bart Zieba and having a sell adressed envelope with the work sent back to me with a date stamped on it good enough for now. This is my work and i just wanted a little security. thanks a lot Bart Christine Valada
# 50139/3/04Hi! I have both the Hollywood Creative Directory 51st and 27th edition and ready to make some contacts. But I want to know....who would give me at least a better chance in the door? The Writers and Managers directory? Or the Production and Studio directory? I would like to know this before I start making contacts. Thank you. Christine Valada
# 49988/31/04Christina, I have someone who may be interested in my screenplay, which is based on my unpublished novel of the same name. If the interested party buys my spec script, will he own the rights to the book as well, or if I quickly self-publish and copyright my novel, does that change anything as far as who owns the rights to the novel? Christine Valada
# 49958/28/04I have been asked to write a treatment for a lifestyle show which I would host. I am looking for examples of treatments for this type of show. Can you point me in the right direction to an online source that I could take a look at? Christine Valada
# 49938/28/04It turns out the title I selected for my teen angst story is the same title for a little known teen angst comic book series that was done 10 years ago. Does this mean I can't use it? Also, I noticed that a past US movie distributed in Europe used this title, but for the US release they used a different title. Christine Valada
# 49888/26/04Hello, my question is quite complicated that can't be come uner seventy five words. Could you reply me through your email to my email? Please, I honestly need your help. My address: irfanpathan448@zwallet.com Thank you Christine Valada
# 49668/21/04Hello! I have been querying agents, manangers, production companies for almost a year now with my several screenplays that i have written, and with everyone i have been rejected or no reponse back. I beleive i have some great concepts, but i'm not getting nowhere. I even thought about trying to write what's selling. Sometimes i get a little discourage, but i love writing screenplays! I don't know what to do. Can you help me? Christine Valada
# 49598/21/04Hold on, with whom am I to negotiate the underlying rights properly? Is it the company of the book or the purchaser of my script??? Do you mean that I am to clearly remind them that my script based on the book have its own underlying rights including merchandizing rights?(The book and the based upon script have the same topic.) Kindly explain How can I NEGOTIATE the underlying rights???? Christine Valada
# 49588/21/04I have a few questions that I'd would greatly appreciate if answered: 1. I want to direct my script someday, but will a movie studio let a first time feature film director direct a movie? 2. How do I arrange an "appointment" with a major film studio, if I don't have an agent (I realize it'd be better if I had an agent, but since I dont now, I'm curious) I would greatly appreciate an answer. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 49548/19/04Big names were involved in just producing my ex-producing partner's film -- wherein all my major conceits and plot devices and character types have survived-- how do i validate the five years involved creating said project and finally get paying work in town of many stolen ideas? Ask for new deal in return for looking other way this time? Christine Valada
# 49508/19/04Hello, if possible,please may i get some advice on the following: I am interested in re-writing an old horror film, originally made in 1986. I understand that, even as old as it is, i would still need permission to do so. Could you possibly point me in the right direction with the relevent who, where and how's. The film is an american production and i am in the U.K. Thankyou for time, Lisa Smith Christine Valada
# 49498/19/04Thanks for your valuable answer, Christine. I have another question related to that. Do my script, which is based on a published real-life stories book, have its own rights of merchandizing, soundtrack, translations, derivative, comic books, sequels, prequels etc, etc, etc? Again thanks a zillion for your precious time. Christine Valada
# 49448/18/04If you have no connections. Is it easier to break in the industry as an actor, than it is being a screenwriter? I was told by someone that it'll be much easier to sell your screenplays if you are a working actor, because you'll have some sort of connection with someone in hollywood, than a person off the street just trying to sell a screenplay, is this true? Christine Valada
# 49358/18/04What is a story analysis? I was told by a certain producer/manager that a story analysis will take a look at my script and to see if it's marketable for $150.00. Should i be concerned? Christine Valada
# 49278/18/04Do the movie rights of some book include, all motion picture, television, soundtrack, music publishing, merchandizing rights? If yes and/or no, what else include the movie rights? Thanks a zillion for your time. Christine Valada
# 49258/17/04(PLEASE-NOTE-MINUS-SIGNS-let-me-send-my-Query-in75words)If-I-option-a-book's-movie-rights and complete-a-spec-script-based-on-that, do I-need-to-make-the-script copyright-protected-with my-name? If yes and if I don't become-successful in-getting-sold-or-getting-optioned the script within the time-including-expanded-time agreed in the option agreement and then after the agreed time someone contacts me for buying/optioning the script, would I be able to sell the script on my own? or would I need to get back the movie right of the book, which the book's company may would have sold-to-some1else at that time? What-would-I-do-in-that-case? Christine Valada
# 49228/16/04I am writing a screenplay and its title is a song title by a famous rock band. The screenplay is, at best, peripherally inspired by the song. Do I need to have the rights to be able to use the title? If so, how do I go about doing so? Christine Valada
# 49128/12/04Is it harder to sell a screenplay versus selling a novel? Christine Valada
# 49028/11/04I'm looking at a life-story option agreement which states that if an option or sale of the work is made, the Story Owner gets a 50% fee after deduction of Writer's fees and expenses including "actual pay scales from the Buyer." Can you tell me what that means? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 48968/9/04If I have a script that which I have put together and is ready for sale in a matter of words, how would or do I go about having it read by the "important people" in Hollywood without them throwing it away calling it unsolicited work? Thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 48848/1/04Christina. I have just been asked to write a 100-120 page scipt for a low bugject film. I have only written 3 full scripts and won a few awards in the past for producing cable shows and from a spec tv show. What is a good ball park figure to jow much I should charge fo my work. Should i get it up front or part now and part later? Christine Valada
# 48777/29/04In all honesty. Does your screenplay has to be formatted to the industry standards in order for an agent or studio exec accepts or buys it? Christine Valada
# 48697/29/04Do it absolutley matter in Hollywood if the structure of the script is not "The Standard", but as long as the agent or studio executive can read it clearly, understand it, but more importantly, have a great story/plot, does it really matter about the "The Standard"? Christine Valada
# 48607/29/04Why are there so many screenplay consultants charging ridiculous prices, without a guarantee that you will sell your script. I can take that money and fly to Los Angeles on a round-trip for those prices! Are they scams? Christine Valada
# 48457/27/04Is it true that some spec screenplays that are sold are not well written at all? Christine Valada
# 48347/25/04Why are there so many spec scripts or pitches being sold with such ridiculous log lines, but when you query your story idea to an agent or production company that you know your script is absolutely better, they in turn tells you that they are not interested. Is this what they call the Hollywood catch 22 that they talk about? Christine Valada
# 48257/25/04Can you sell or get an agent by writing a treatment than the script itself being a first time writer, even though you have plenty of other spec scripts that shows that you know your craft? Christine Valada
# 48067/24/04Is it easier to query a production company or studio, than to query an agent in efforts to get your screenplay sold? Christine Valada
# 47977/24/04What type of genres in regards of spec screenplays that usually sells: drama, comedy ect...? Christine Valada
# 47907/24/04Christine...you're still here..great news! I wrote and produced a comedy show geared for cable TV.I am very close to the start of the pitching phase. It stars 5 different actors. I am aware I need releases signed by the actors but is there anything else legal needed? Do I need releases before pitching ...or before selling for broadcast? I haven't asked you a question since 2003 but your advice has been very good. Good vibes 2 U !!! Christine Valada
# 47857/23/04Can a first time writer with an agent sell a pitch before he even sells his first spec script? And my second question is...How helpful are these screenplay contests? Christine Valada
# 47777/22/04Dear Christine, I am working on a project to direct a short-film. The film script will be based on the original short story by a famous writer.I plan to change a few major things,including the title, also all the words from the story will be translated into image. Do I still need to get a permission and if so what kind of permission do I need to get. Thank you very much C.S. Christine Valada
# 47757/21/04My wife has been in TV news for 14 years. Most recently she and I were a videographer/reporter team. We're looking for work in long format tv not news. She is an award winning writer. I have won a couple of tellys, and the Murrow for videography. We're looking for full time positions, not freelance. Is there such thing as an agent for videographers & host/producer/writers? Thanks, Dan Eschenfelder & Christine Eschenfelder Christine Valada
# 47717/20/04Dear Sister Christine , Note : Dr.Ali is Famous arab star . Who we can talk to work a strategy ? we can guarantee to you that there is so many company's in arab country will sponsor Dr.Ali in his journey .. but we need just a letter from this Industry or Director TO Accept Ali to be in his film or any film. yours Mohanad PR.Manager & Relationship, Christine Valada
# 47697/19/04Thanks, your advice on the work for hire, helped two-fold. As I have two more projects going, one is currently being pitched to Major Studios. I didn’t know the studios would need another signature writer after the initial agreement. Your suggestion to sue and embarrass the producer is great too. A bit expensive for me at this moment, but if my other options pay off. I’ll do it! Or if he sells to a studio. Christine Valada
# 47687/19/04The Work for Hire deal (3579) was for pay. An up front fee was to be paid when the script was delivered. He didn’t and kept stalling. His contacts slowed, then stopped. An entertainment lawyer in Tulsa said I could reclaim the rights after giving him a 10-day notice. (He did this as a favor) We did, but the producer is still attempting to market the script. Is there anything I can do now? Christine Valada
# 47557/13/04i understand that production companies only take submissions from agent/lawyers/managers. Why is it okay for a production company to view a script that has been submitted through these channels? how does submittng through an agent protect the production companies from viewing the material without getting sued? Christine Valada
# 47497/11/04Hello Ms Valada, I live in Greece,I have a high-concept idea which I developed into a small treatment,and I want to protect it before I start submitting it.It's not so much the execution of the idea that I want to protect,but the idea itself,the premise.Having read your answers regarding the copyright issue,I've concluded that when it comes to protecting concepts,the WGA is more suitable than the copyright office.Is the WGA the best protection for me? Christine Valada
# 47477/11/04Hi Christine Would a lawyer be allowed to take a case on his own and not the law firm he is working in if he has a practicing certificate? I mean the permission by the court. Christine Valada
# 47467/11/04Hi Christine I have completed writing a courtroom drama and would like to seek your opinion on some legal issues. Will a lawyer violate his professional ethics if he is to defend his brother from a murder charge? If the answer is "yes," what action will be taken against him if he is to go ahead defending his brother? Will he be fined? Disbarred? Or the judge would not allow him to rep his brother? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 47316/30/04Thanks for answering my question. You said I should register with the Writer's Guild and also copywrite my work, that you had never heard of Protectrite. Founded in California in 1994 National Creative Registry's ProtectRite service processes thousands of online registrations each year worldwide. They provide confidential registration of original works. ProtectRite registration establishes the completion date of registered materials and long-term storage in the event my original is lost or destroyed. Christine Valada
# 47126/18/04Thank you. Please supply contact info, hopefully I will need a good entertainment lawyer. QUESTION: I have many color Prints (rendered 3D characters/environments)for my mtg with Development at Network. I am concerned about leaving them copies, yet they probably need them to show others. AM I being paranoid (prior bad experience)? I have registered with WGA, and put a copyright at the bottom of each print. What would you advise? Christine Valada
# 47056/15/04I have designed and created 3D characters for content I will pitch next week. Is there any chance I can retain ANY monetary ownership rights to the characters versus the show, if I'm asking the network to pay my animation company to create the shorts? Christine Valada
# 47036/11/04Christine, I am in the process of marketing some short screenplays I've written (30 pages or less) and I'm trying to determine what would be appropriate compensation for them. I've looked at the WGA production agreement under both film and television and only TV has a category for scripts of the right length. Would it be a good idea to use these figures as a guide? Many thanks, Kevin Hill Christine Valada
# 46966/8/04Do I need permission to use famous names? I'm working on a tennis script and I've used names like Venus and Serena Williams including their posters. Would I be liable Christine Valada
# 46956/8/04I wrote a non-fiction magazine article about a group of live individuals who had never been written about before. Production companies have contacted both me and the individuals about optioning the story for film. What are my rights as author where film option fees are concerned? Can production companies negotiate with the subjects directly and bypass me? Which of us is legally entitled to compensation--writer or subjects being written about? Christine Valada
# 46916/3/04Hey there, Christine. I am fifteen years old, a rising sophomore in high school, and I'm wondering what classes to take if I have a desire to be a screenwriter. I've requested Film Appreciation and Electronic Media. Also, I am going to start a film club. My sister is supporting the club (she's a teacher). Will this aid in my future? Christine Valada
# 46876/1/04Hello Christine. I'm going to option a true story (they've agreed). Should I make the first move and have a lawyer draw up a contract, or should I wait for the other party to do so? I approached them first, so perhaps I should...? Christine Valada
# 46855/31/04Hi Christine. I'm going to option a true story for a future film (the true story is twenty years old). My question is if there is a certain (or "safe") amount of money I can offer them? I was thinking in the range of one grand, but I'm not entirely sure if that's appropriate, or if that's not nearly a good enough offer. It probably depends on the person, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Christine Valada
# 46845/31/04I have a leave behind for a reality series that I would like to submit to a couple of production companies. My problem is that I'm working through a temp agency and I can't afford right now to register the leave behind. I know it's only $20.00, but I honestly can't afford it. Is there some other way to protect work? Does mailing it to myself and not opening the envelope really work? Christine Valada
# 46825/30/04Is it easier to sell a script to a producer, or the story? Christine Valada
# 46565/22/04Is there any difference between the movie rights and the screenplay rights of a book? or both are the same? I have obtained the screenplay rights of the book, but the author is still marketting his movie rights of the book. Christine Valada
# 46515/20/04My first screenplay (romance)meant to sell in USA has received a serious offer from a European TV channel for a series. My attempt to find an agent in USA has failed since I am a new writer. Do you have any suggestions as to what I should do to get a proper agent ASAP? Your quick response would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Kelly H - Athens, Greece Christine Valada
# 46205/4/04I've been working on a screenplay for the last couple of years and have reached the point (107 pages) where I would like to submit it to friends, college instructors, anyone who is willing to read it and provide instuctive insight for further revisions. Should I register my work with Proctectrite or the WGA now before letting anyone else read my script? Christine Valada
# 46104/25/04Hi Christine Thanks for the doco advice. It isn't Presley but California based artist of similar vintage. The 10% of production budget is what the lawyer is asking to use his image in a theatrical feature. That's a lot of bread Christine Valada
# 46034/20/04Hi Christine I have been discussing image rights for a deceased singer who lived in California. The estate's lawyer wants 10% of production budget for exercise of option plus gross %age points on favored nations basis with everyone involved, actors, director, producers. Seems very high to me. What do you think? Say that they have the right to stop us making a TV doco on this guy's life unless we pay big bucks? Can they? Christine Valada
# 45944/17/04What is the law on titles? I've discovered that a story I'm developing has the same title and is similar in story to an old movie...I'd never heard of it til recently. Can I still use it? I've noticed that often movies have the same title so I'm curious as to what the law is? Christine Valada
# 45934/16/04Hello again. Are there any copyright implications regarding mentioning an artist and one of her songs in my screenplay? Or should I worry about that only when a script sells? Thank you in advance Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 45894/14/04Dear Ms. Valada, An indie producer wants to work with me for a writing assignment after reading ten pages of my script. He asked for the rest of the script but I am concerned that his intentions are to steal my story. He talked about hiring me to work on a story idea that would take quite a bit of research. What about payment for my work? Should I ask for payment before I start? Christine Valada
# 45774/1/04A friend has written the music and lyrics which is now on CDs. There's a song I'd like to adapt into a screenplay. He said, "Sure, go ahead and give me what the law says is fair." What would that be? A set fee? A % of the writer's fee? IS there a set fee? What do YOU think is fair? There are a lot of details I want to use from his song. Christine Valada
# 45693/30/04CV: (Thanks for your earlier encouragement. "The matter has been amicably resolved.") I know California's right to publicity law protects celebrity rights with regard commerical use... but does the same hold true on stage? A fellow writer (and attorney for one of the 3 networks) assured me that I would be within my right to use a celebrity in a stage play, in California, in the wake of the play "A Day in Hollywood." Christine Valada
# 45683/29/04Ms. Valada I collaborated on a screenplay w. 2 friends. I did the writing with periodic brainstorming/editing sessions with my 'co-writers'. We copyrighted the product under all 3 names. They now inform me that they're removing my name, since I had little input in subsequent re-writes. I believe I retain 1/3rd ownership unless I choose to release my interest, and that he is acting beyond the scope of his powers. What is your take on this? Christine Valada
# 45633/25/04Hi Christine. Thanks, hugely helpful. My celebrity actually died in UK but he lived in California. One last favor. I have been trying to find contact details for Bela Lugosi Jnr. without success. I am in UK. Can you help? Many thanks Peter Mackenzie Christine Valada
# 45623/25/04Hi Christine Thanks for your royalties advice. I intend to be a nice guy, but wondered if legally it's necessary to pay any royalties as the singer is deceased (it will help me when negotiating). Can a trade mark be registered in the singer’s name by me or the estate to protect from pirates? I think the Elvis estate did something like this a few years ago. Many thanks Peter Mackenzie Christine Valada
# 45573/24/04Hi, Which of the following can at least get you in the door with your spec script: An agent, manager, or an attorney at law? Or does it really matter? Christine Valada
# 45503/24/04Hello Christine I am making a biopic and a doco about the life of a singer who is long since deceased. There will be merchandising spin off. Could you let me know in your view, what would be a reasonable percentage of producer profits we should agree to pay his estate on profits from the film, the soundtrack, the doco and merchandising? Many thanks Peter Mackenzie Christine Valada
# 45443/18/04I'm writing a screenplay which uses a somewhat obscure historical figure in a fiction role. I'd like to use his name and his accomplishments for my story. What are my legal responsibilities? Should I try to contact the family and get permission first? If this sells, do I need to share profits with the family? I'm a little hazy on the legal ramifications of using his name. Christine Valada
# 45433/18/04Before tryin to 'sell' my concept, I've been told its a good idea to register it with WGA, but considering (I think) its referred to as a 'high concept' I'm not sure what WGA category it would fall under OR what actual material I'd submit to be registered? A Word document with the short Log Line? If so, is this what I would send to what ever entity I'm trying to sell my concept to? Christine Valada
# 45383/16/04Don't know if this is the right place to ask about this, but would a script be bought from someone under eighteen? Christine Valada
# 45373/15/04I have done some research but was unable to find certain information regarding death row visitation. Could an insurance salesman speak with a death row inmate in order to discuss his life insurance? Even if the inmate had not yet been life insured? Thank you in advance. Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 45263/9/04Hi, I would like to comment on a subject that someone posted earlier regarding the "Pilot Season". I don't quite understand it, but is it directly related more toward actors and tv writers, than someone trying to sell a feature length screenplay? Christine Valada
# 45123/9/04I've been told that this is the pilot season, and because of that, no one are taking on new clients right now for representation. Is this true? Secondly, When does this pilot season ends? Christine Valada
# 45033/8/04One last question (hopefully). Can he (the serial killer who got death penalty) choose to die in his home state, such as New York, even if he had been arrested in another state? What would it take for a serial killer or any criminal to be sentenced death penalty? And, by the way, lethal injection is virtually the universal method of execution in the United States, in case someone else asks. Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 45003/7/04I am sorry to bother you once more, but I just found a site with information about states with the death penalty. So it won't have to be in Texas, but is there a specific jail or prison where those wo get the death penalty are taken to? Thank you in advance, Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 44993/7/04Thanks again for your help, the last time. This time, I needed to know where (in Texas) that serial killer would be taken to if he were to get the death penalty. Is lethal injection the procedure, nowadays? Thank you in advance. Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 44983/7/04last year i photographed a famous musician. upon the request of the musician's assistant, i sent in two photographs for possible inclusion in a publication. i very clearly stated in an email (before materials were sent) and on the materials themselves, the prints must be returned to me. many months and emails later, i have nothing. the value of the prints is not large at all, should i even bother pursuing this issue? thank you. Christine Valada
# 44953/6/04Hello. I was wondering if you're able to help with something. Is it possible for a serial killer to go on trial the very same day he has been arrested? If so, how would that be possible? And, if not, why? Thank you for your help. Antonio S. Rodrigues Christine Valada
# 44702/24/04I am interested in setting up a prod. company for charity. I have some, but not much experience in TV and ALL of the projects I've done I've had to partner with larger prod. companies or showrunners.By establishing the business as a nonprofit does it make it more appealing for other prod. comanies or networks to work with me? Are there tax or publicity benefits for them? Christine Valada
# 44692/23/04I am interested in writing a screenplay about a man who is no longer living. I feel confident in my ability to do independent research from source material. However, a key event in his life involves a semi-famous individual, who has already sold his own life rights to another writer. How will this impact my depiction of this individual in my story? Christine Valada
# 44572/17/04How can I be sure to protect myself and my story when submitting it ? Is it different when I only submit the synopsis ? Thanks... Christine Valada
# 44402/4/04I signed an option agreement with a producer and the people financing the project. I was supposed to receive payment the day we signed. The finance guy wasn't able to pay because he "forgot his checkbook." He said he'd mail the check. It's been two weeks and no check. I have doubts about the finance guy. Since I haven't recieved payment, can I get out of this? Christine Valada
# 44292/1/04Ms. Valada, my character must take the MMPI (a psychological test to see if she's mentallly sane). I would like to include some of the questions from the test, am I breaking any laws? I know this test is old and has been around since the 40s, but I think they recently renewed it. Christine Valada
# 44251/31/04Dear Christine, I've already registered and copyrighted my treatment, now I have a completed script. Should I also copyright that, or am I covered under the above mentioned treatment? Also, what about any revisions that are made after any copyright, do those need to be registered too? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 44191/29/04Dear Ms. Valada, I am writing a script that will be produced and seen in film festivals around the country. I have a scene that has a character singing a popular song to himself. I know that I would need the rights to if I wanted to use the song in the soundtrack, but do I still need the rights if a character is singing two lines of the song to himself? Thank you Christine Valada
# 44151/27/04Can you explain release forms that an agent or attorney might ask one to sign when submitting a treatment for a reality show idea? Is it safe to sign a release (I’m assuming it’s mandatory)? Any kind of release that isn’t safe? It just seems dangerous to sign something that essentially says the agent/atty may have had this idea already. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 44121/26/04Thanks for your response to #4403. So in your opinion, should I NOT shop the project around? I would be happy to include the so-called manager as a producer on the project but I have no idea where they are. Everywhere I've looked has been a dead end. I feel it's a good writing sample and would make a cute movie but obviously don't want to be sued later. Christine Valada
# 44101/26/04I've been approached by an LA couple about optioning one of my novels for a book-to-movie deal. They're both experienced players and he has recognizable film credits to his credit. HOWEVER, they're offering $0. My lit agent is willing to go with them for a three-month max. They say they need at least nine months and won't take less. Now, it's my call. What do you recommend? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 44031/23/04HAPPY NEW YEAR!Over a year ago I was dev. a script with a so-called mgr. who's since disappeared. I created all the characters and did all the writing and it's WGA reg under my name only. We have a client at the agency I work that's interested in producing it. Could that so-called mgr make any claim should it get sold/made? We had nothing in writing. Thanks for your advice. Christine Valada
# 43851/15/04How much option money can one expect to recieve for a reality television format/idea? I'm sure it varies, but what's the average range? Christine Valada
# 43841/14/04Ms. Valada, I may have the opportunity to option a real life story. The person wants to talk money. If they make a offer first, should I get a lawyer involved? Or should I offer a percentage of that cost on my own, especially if it's just in "talks"? Christine Valada
# 43781/12/04Followup to #4372. I have a US Copyright dated 9/10/2000. Actually the only things identical are the middle aged man and mid-twenties girl in a boderline platonic relationship which makes it stand out. My man has self inflicted bedevilment over his fight to NOT DO - that lends to comedy. Does that sound twisted enough(excuse the pun)? Christine Valada
# 43751/12/04Hello. Suppose I wanted to write a non-fiction book about a series of films - let's say, for the sake of argument, it was a book about the Austin Powers or James Bond films - do I need permission to describe the plots, synopsis in my book? Christine Valada
# 43721/11/04TKOed by “Lost In Translation”. Same storyline , different setting. I’m wondering if this renders my different characters/setting script useless. I first entered it in screenplay competition in 2001, have since rewritten and was to enter another soon. On one hand, LIT proves the plot works, but is the story now so secondhand that I might be accused of plagiarism? Christine Valada
# 434412/29/03Hi, I am in the very beginner's stage of writing my very first screenplay. It's an urban film about young people striving to accomplish their singing, poetry dreams and so there is a lot of music to set the scene. If i'm using music from any artists (justin timberlake, 50 cent) do I have to get some kind of rights or permission to do so? Christine Valada
# 434012/28/03Dear Christine, We're told to check out agents/producers before sending out our work. For those listed on this website ("scripts wanted") who are independent and possibly brand new, how exactly do we do that? I sent out a script to someone who claimed to be a producer. How do I find out if he's legit? Christine Valada
# 431712/11/03I'm a comedian who's been contacted to develop a series with a prod. company. How much money can I expect, and does this mean I can't try to sell my otehr side projects? Christine Valada
# 431112/8/03Christine, hope you can help me with this one. I've heard that during the civil rights movement it was not uncommon for a minister/priest to defend a client in court. Is this true? And is there a legal president that makes it possible? thanks for the time. Jordan Christine Valada
# 430912/7/03Hello Christine, My question, My brother and I have made a documentary, where do i go to get it on t.v. We have played it at two local night clubs, everybody tells us it should be on t.v. They love it. Thanks for your valued time. Justin R. Wilson Christine Valada
# 430312/5/03I had a UK production company offer to option my screenplay in May 2003. In August we signed the agreement after going over details etc for a few months back and forth. However, it's now december and they have not paid the option. Is it safe to assume the option is not legal? How do I be sure to end the contract (we both have signed copies), I want to shop the script again. Christine Valada
# 429612/3/03Hi Christine - Legal question : A man (or woman) in Texas is beaten severely with a 2 x 4. Lengthy hospital stay and recovery (brain damage). The attacker cannot give a reason and it is determined that the attack was probably pre-meditated and not suddenly provoked. With no previous record what is the probable sentence (without further mitigating circumstances)? Christine Valada
# 429512/3/03Hi Christine - Legal question : A man (or woman) in Texas is beaten severely with a 2 x 4. Lengthy hospital stay and recovery (brain damage). The attacker cannot give a reason and it is determined that the attack was probably pre-meditated and not suddenly provoked. With no previous record what is the probable sentence (without further mitigating circumstances)? Christine Valada
# 429012/3/03I contacted the person at CBS you said (Director of Development). We had a very in-depth discussion about my ideas. He said he would like to set up a meeting with me in NY. Should I scramble to find a lawyer to go with me? If so, how do I find one on short notice? Christine Valada
# 428912/1/03I have the similar problem as the person who posted question 4269. I know the company I need to contact (CBS), but I don't know who to ask for. What's the title of the person I would need to contact? Thanks for any help you can give. Christine Valada
# 428511/29/03I am worried that since I am young people won't want to buy my script how can I get them to listen? Christine Valada
# 426911/25/03A friend and I are interested in taking a popular children's tv show and writing a script for a full feature film.Unfortunately, we dont know much of the legal aspect of who to contact for permission or is that handled once we write it and option it? Christine Valada
# 425211/15/03I have an agency by the name of Wolcott Literary Agency interested in my manuscript. They charge a 1 time reading fee of $150 for new writers. If they sign me on there will never be another cost except the 10% they say they get for any deals. Have you ever heard of them, and does this sound fair? Christine Valada
# 424511/12/03I've got a decent piece of talent attached to a reality show treatment I created.A prod.conmpany wants to option it.2000 floor, 2% net,producer credit,no services,1year free option,no option money.Does that sound right or is it low?I know there's no industry "standard deal",and I have an attorneynegotiating,but for my own peace of mind I'dlike to have some concept of what these deals look like and I have no otehr way of finding out. Christine Valada
# 422911/10/03Is it easier to go to a production company to sell, or even have them take a look at your script, rather having to go and trying to land an agent? Christine Valada
# 421611/9/03Hello Ms. Valada, I have a tv pilot show filmed and it includes some music I wrote. When I copyright the film will that also copyright the song too? Do you copyright film thru the Library of Congress copyright office like music??? Do you have to provide them a copy...and on what media? DVD , video or what?Thank You very much for your time. Christine Valada
# 420611/6/03I look at the daily spec sales daily. i love the website. but mostly i've seen pitches and spec scripts that hardly makes any sense sold. But, they have succeeded, and that's most important. My question is... If you're in the Los Angeles area, and there's tons of agents all over, what is the best way to approach an agent? Christine Valada
# 419711/6/03I've been told by several people down here in Los Angeles that it's possible to pitch your idea to an agent and get it sold without ever writing the script. Is this true? Christine Valada
# 418811/6/03I know its possible to succeed in both as an actor, and as a screenwriter. But realistically, which of the two you have a greater chance in succeeding in? Christine Valada
# 418011/4/03I wrote "Elvis and Red," (about Elvis Presley's high school days) at the suggestion of producer Robert Ginty--based on Ginty's friend, Red West's memories with Elvis. I got no money upfront-but decent'back-end' if the film sells. Now Ginty wants rewrites; I'd like to be paid. But then he might hand the project to another writer. How to get out of this'work for hire' corner? Christine Valada
# 416410/31/03Dear Ms. Valada: Thank you for your answer re: secret taping. I didn't realize you specialized in entertainment law, not criminal law (I should have checked first). Thanks for the information you passed along - it gets me pointed in the right direction. Diane Christine Valada
# 415910/30/03Dear Ms. Valada: Thank you for taking time for my question. In a screenplay I'm writing the hero character obtains a taped/videoed confession from the bad guy. The tape is made under duress; the bad guy admits crimes he normally wouldn't have confessed had his life not hung in the balance. The hero is an ordinary citizen with no legal authority. Can the tape legally be used as evidence to convict the bad guy? Thanks again. Diane Christine Valada
# 415210/29/03hello, i will be down in the los angeles area in two weeks, and i would like to know since i don't have an agent, what is the best way to get your scripts sold, or even look at? thank you Christine Valada
# 412710/27/03Ms. Valada, if you wanted to adapt your script into a novel, is it okay to demand that clause in your contract with the producer? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 412410/27/03I recently registered my screenplay with the WGA (before sending it to other writers for feedback.) I now need to go back and rewrite a scene, to strength the ending. My question is, do rewrites need registration, or is the original registration sufficient? Christine Valada
# 412010/24/03Christine, is there any way around the rule in the Killer Coverage that says you must be 18 or older to submit material? My friend and I are 13 and we have a great screenplay. Could you help us? Christine Valada
# 411610/23/03Dear Ms. Valada, I just finished my animated screenplay which was inspired by a song by and would like to use the song in the movie I would like to have them sing it as a theme song. If I am lucky to have a studio interested in my screenplay and I get a pitch, would it be proper if I lip synched the song in order to show the movements of the character? Christine Valada
# 411510/22/03My fictitious screenplay includes an illegal activity at a real location, e,g. XYZ Steel Mill in SmallTown, PA. Can I be sued by the company even though the company is never mentioned? The location is a one of a kind operation in the entire state, and there are only several in the entire country. Even if I do not refer to the plant by name can it be inferred and still get me into trouble? Christine Valada
# 410410/16/03How long after a film comes out can a writer sue for them stealing a script. I had a script a couple years ago and a studio made one very similar. Same concept, same characters, same plot points, same action scenes, and a couple very unique FX scenes never before seen. I've been waiting to file because I figured it could hurt my career whether I win or lose because I'm not produced or represented. Christine Valada
# 410310/16/03Do the laws governing the protection of creative works vary from state to state? If so does it matter what state the writer or agent are in? How is it determined which state has jurisdiction. Christine Valada
# 410210/16/03I have a treatment being looked at by a friend who works for a well known production company in California. My question is twofold. First, in the event that the company likes my work, should I be looking for an entertainment lawyer now and be ready when the day comes, and secondly, will attorneys rep someone who has no credits but has material being looked at? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 409710/14/03can I just submit a 4 pages synopsis Christine Valada
# 409010/10/03A friend asked me the meaning of the below paragraph (from a contract he's been offered). Not sure what it means. (He's seeking legal represention.) "Screenwriter shall also receive a sum equal to Five percent of 100% of the contingent net profits of the picture, if any, calculated, accounted for and paid on a most favorable nations basis applicable to the director of said motion picture." Not sure what the second half of that means. Christine Valada
# 408610/10/03I’m writing a period screenplay and relying heavily on advice from a scholar-friend for historical accuracy. I haven’t brought up the subject of collaboration but I think my friend deserves some credit and compensation if my spec script sells. What’s the smart way to handle this? I want to avoid hard feelings or litigation that could arise if I do nothing, however, I’m definitely doing most of the work. Christine Valada
# 40649/29/03Thank you so much for your help regarding the crappy option contract. One part I forgot to mention is it's a reality show I created and attached the talent to. My next question is this: for someone with no credits, what "should" this contract look like.I know there's not a lot to go on, but if I can gt an idea of a range,I will feel more confidant when talking to attorneys. Christine Valada
# 40569/27/03A prod. company wants to option a project I've created and attached a significant piece of talent to.I have no credits, but have a number of industry relationships and other projects with good tallent attached.They want to give a 1 yr. free option with 5% net profits and a producer credit with no services.This sounds pretty crappy.Is this pretty standard?Would doing it for the credit be worthwhile?Should I shop it around more-I haven'tshown anyone else? Christine Valada
# 40549/25/03a copyright question...I just completed a script where several of the main characters are Talking Crash Test Dummies...yes, they speak like "Vince and Larry", the dummies on those NHTSA ads for the federal government, but they aren't based on those specific characters nor does the script imply that they are representing the government. Also, Volvo made a commercial featuring "Clive" a talking dummy. Am I infringing? Christine Valada
# 40319/20/03Hi, As far as writing a remake goes, should I have it written before going to a studio to pitch it, or should I ask the studio for permission first to see if they would be interested? Also, if they like my idea, what would stop them from using another writer and cutting me out completely? thank you Christine Valada
# 40239/19/03I am aware of a person within the industry who has optioned a book and there has been no sign of the film. I really love the book and would like to speak to this person. How do I get hold of him or his agency? Christine Valada
# 40229/18/03A screenwriter on a WGA project wants a WGA arbitration on a script. Another person claims to have an agreement that assures them of credit and prevents the screenwriter from seeking WGA arbitration. Should the screenwriter go ahead and ask for the arbitration, or do they have to fear being sued or having their arbitration overridden by the (alleged) agreement? Christine Valada
# 40209/18/03What are the possibities of selling my screenplay once I received a grade of "Recommend" from your company? Christine Valada
# 40139/16/03A newer attorney in California wants to charge me an "introduction commision" of 15% for forwarding my work to a friend who knows a manager, plus his rates for handling any legal which comes of the introduction. Here is the clause: 1. A 15% commission of any purchase price for your property if it is sold via the introductions that I make. What do you think? Thank you in advance. Craig. Christine Valada
# 40049/12/03I have an agent who is repping my screenplay. However, another agent has offered to rep me (although he doesn't know I am already repped). Can a screenwriter sign with more than one agent at a time? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 40019/10/03I've adapted a 60s TV show into a live-action script (WGA registered). A studio owns the rights, and won't sell them to me because I'm a "third party." They recommend I get a production company involved. I did. The production company wants to see the script. But since I don't own the rights to the property, could I get cut out of the deal? Christine Valada
# 39979/9/03Hello - I would like to target agents that handle my particular type of movie story. Agents which handle specific stars, writers, and directors. I know my story and those I think would be great at making it happen. Or at least would be interested. How do I narrow the contacts? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 39969/8/03Hi I want to adapt a popular novel. The author's agent said to make him an offer. The same author's other novel was adapted and is being released as a film - does that mean the rights for the (less popular) book I'm interested in will automatically cost as much as that novel sold for? Also, where (except variety and HR) can I find out what was paid for the first bookrights? Christine Valada
# 39909/4/03Hi. I just read a book which was published in London that I think would make a great film. I am a working TV writer and prepared to option this ture story. Where do I start? How much can I expect to pay for an option? Christine Valada
# 39828/30/03Hi, I'm wondering, I'm putting together a short documentary film involving historical photos from various sources. I don't even know if the film will have a commercial release, so what kind of copyright information do I need to know now? Thank you Christine Valada
# 39798/28/03If I submit a screenplay to a contest that is sponsored by a production company, can I still negotiate a "first-look" deal with studios and/or production companies? Christine Valada
# 39788/28/03Is it necessary, or recommended, to register with both the WGA and the Copyright Office in order to protect your work? I've always thought that the Copyright registration was sufficient for protection. Registering with both can get kind of expensive for a struggling writer. Christine Valada
# 39598/23/03What is the best way to option a book? Can an individual approach a publisher, and if so, who would one contact? Is it the legal department? Christine Valada
# 39568/22/03Dear Ms. Valada, My question is related to the book publishing. My book was published by a small publisher who doesn’t do anything about advertising and distributing the book. He didn’t even print the first 200-300 copies. The book is only on his web site. Can I change now the publisher? How? Will other publishers accept my book if it has been already published? Thank you in advance. Louise Christine Valada
# 39528/21/03Christine: If a production company requests a hard copy of my script after reading the logline and synopsis, but I cannot locate any information about the company or person on the Internet Movie Data Base or the Hollywood Creative Directory 48th edition is it wise to send the hard copy? They learned of my script as I was a quarter finalist in the Scriptapalooza recent contest. Thank you. Christine Valada
# 39068/9/03Hi Christine, Regarding your answer to question #144, what if it's a potential agent who asks you to sign a release form before he will read your material? I did that for an agent at CAA before he would read me. He ultimately decided not to represent me. Have I signed away my rights to compensation if I see it on screen some day? He wouldn't consider me otherwise. Christine Valada
# 38978/7/03I was approached via email by a fairly new production company in response to a posted logline on Hollywoodlitsales.com. The email, sent by one of the company's producers, asked me to send my script, along with a synopsis, to a private address. How can I be sure that this is the correct address for this company? Christine Valada
# 38888/4/03Christine, I have an agent, but I'm not satisfied with him so I aim to move on. He said fine, but the script stays with him because he claims he has put a lot of effort into it (he got 2 people to look into it). He did give me some advice in beefing the script but it was minor and we only signed a standard representation contract not a option. Can he do that? Christine Valada
# 38878/4/03We are translating a Russian novel(1989) and creating a screenplay from our translation. Do we have to secure translation permissions and also copyright permissions or do we leave that to the producer? Christine Valada
# 38818/3/03Dear Ms. Valada, Re: Q # 3819. Could you go into depth a little on the process or the best way to address these capitilization formalities you mention? I didn't ask this question..... but we read all your questions and answers around here . Maybe suggest a good book that covers this.Thank You very much. Christine Valada
# 38798/3/03Hi Christine. My question is similar to #3873, however the person I was working with only had an "idea" for the project. Then he disappeared, I haven't been able to reach him in about a year. I developed it, characters and all and wrote the script and his name is NOT on the registration with the writers guild. I feel he is not entitled to anything if it sells and/or becomes a hit? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 38778/2/03In response to question #3873: I have decided to write another screenplay using a whole new premise. It will contain the seed of my first concept. It will hardly be recognizable. Then I will give it a new name. When I am through with this, it will be a different screenplay. Can I get away with this? Christine Valada
# 38737/31/03Hi, I wrote a script a few years ago, but never copyright it in the USA. Since then I have joined with a writing partner who I thought was the ideal partner. I placed his name on the copyright as a matter of good faith. What am I up against if this screenplays sells? He departed and he never worked with me on any of it. Christine Valada
# 38657/30/03I'm a writer who will soon have a screenplay ready for market. Is there some place where I can get a list of entertainment attorneys, as well as information about their clients and court cases? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 38457/26/03Re: Q. # 3836 oh dear..not good news..I am currently only an new Independent producer doing a un-sold pilot for TV.I'm using a completely obscure song by P.McCartney during Wings period(1971)for only 50 seconds.The whole p.budget is only $5,000.I looked at the MPL site ( his publisher)for contact.An offer should be made even under this if/come situation? How much? $20 as a token for now? What will they charge when it is sold??? Christine Valada
# 38447/25/03Four years ago I was allowed in an estate where I bought a group of letters(200 in all). The letters were written by a lawyer involved in a highly controversial court case in the mid 40s. The subjects, including the lawyer have passed. Since the original transcripts of the trial are now public domain (published) could I be held lible for use of names used in a screenplay. Thank you. Christine Valada
# 38367/24/03Ms. Valada, Your advice is gold and appreciated.Question on music.Many independent filmmakers use music but when they are shopping their product they are not charging anybody and they are not broadcasting it yet.At what point do you pay the owners of the music you use?Also i'm using just 10 seconds of a song sometimes...is using only a segment cost less? Christine Valada
# 38337/23/03I would like to know is it much easier to sell your first novel than selling your first screenplay? And would the profit be much rewarding? Christine Valada
# 38197/22/03i would like to know can a aspring writer sell a spec television pliot? Christine Valada
# 37717/10/03Christine, When you are done filming your footage on a project, do you copyright all the reels or just the edited footage.Is there a cost per reel to copyright?How does that work and what is the price just to pay the gov. copyright people. How is it different if you want to copyright the name of a TV show for instance, not the film itself.Thanks. Christine Valada
# 37647/8/03Do you know which entity owns the film rights to the book The Magus, written by John Fowles? Christine Valada
# 37627/8/03Hi Christine, In your opinion, how safe and smart is it to use sites like Triggerstreet.com to get my script "out there"? Thanks for your help, Buck Christine Valada
# 37547/6/03Let's say someone is selling a spec screenplay, and they are concerned about people trying to get implied or oral agreements through conversations with them. They are also concerned about being intimidated or manipulated personally into an unwanted agreement. Can they protect themself by specifying in a cover letter or on the script itself that "all agreements, business dealings, etc. must go through my legal representatives and not through myself"? Christine Valada
# 37457/1/03I've just pitched a producer on a script. They are affiliated with a large studio. Very much interested, but need rewrite. Should I hire and agent and/or attorney now? Will this help or hurt relationship? Christine Valada
# 37396/30/03Hi Im 15 years old and going to be an actress what would you say is the perfect image for someone to be taken seriously as an actress and what image would get you work quickly Christine Valada
# 37376/29/03Dear Christine, I have written a screenplay which I am pleased with and which I am turning into a novel. Is there any legal or business reason which would impede anyone picking up the screenplay if the work has been sold in novel format first, or vice versa? Many thanks for your time. Sam Gerrans Christine Valada
# 37266/26/03I have a reality project I developed with another person. Now he's saying his agent doesn't want to take it out, but I still think it's viable and spent a lot of time attaching a property. What are my options? If I take it out without him how does that work? Do I need his permission to do this? What should I do? Christine Valada
# 37216/26/03Hi! How can an aspring screenwriter get representation if no one is accepting new writers? Secondly, Where can i find a list of good agents or managers that will look at new writers Christine Valada
# 36916/23/03Dear Ms. Valada: For a creative writing assignment my 12-year-old daughter wrote a sequel to a popular Disney animation. The story was originally a tale/legend. Since her sequel seemed entertaining we sent it to Disney. Their polite reply was, "Thank you, but we don't accept outside work." Two questions: 1)Should we try another company (e.g. Pixar) or would Disney hold total rights to this story? 2) Should we try a different avenue with Disney? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 36896/22/03An actress in an independent film I have completed after 19 months (who worked a few hours total over 3 days) did not sign a release.She is now threatening to prevent the release of the film and sue for invasion of privacy. The rest of the cast and crew are willing to side with me in court,and the rough footage clearly shows that this is NOT a hidden camera scenario.How valid are her threats? Christine Valada
# 36756/20/03Hi Christine, You've been a great help in the past, thank you. I have just finished my first screenplay. I live in Canada and I am about to register with WGA in Canada as well as copyright my material with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office. By doing the above, does it only protect me within Canada, or am I also protected Internationally as well? Thank you. Victoria Christine Valada
# 36526/16/03RE: Question #3648 I sent them a cover letter with the script March 2003 stating that I felt the project was a strong candidate for a European co-production in a new venture they just set up. This is exactlly what they did with it. I'll follow your advice, see what happens. Thanks. Christine Valada
# 36486/14/03Thanks for taking the time to answere my question #3641. They were able to set up a $15m deal for the project 3 months after I sent it. The joint managing director of one of the co-production companies is an old friend from my days in film school. I just figured they would pay 2-3% of the production budget. What time frame should I be looking at before I start to worry? Christine Valada
# 36416/10/03Dear Ms. Valada, What if I sent a spec script to a production company giving them authority to shop it around without first optioning it. Say they have success in setting it up as a co-production deal. What would the next step in negotiations be? Christine Valada
# 36356/9/03What are the legalities around mentioning and showing brand name products in a script, in particular if not referred to in a positive way.? Does it require the approval of the manufacturer? Christine Valada
# 36236/8/03I will be staying in L.A. for two weeks. and im wondering, is it much easier for me to find an agent and get my script sold? Or, the same procedures follows no matter where i live? secondly, does it take 6 months for either producers or studios to give you an answer about your script? Christine Valada
# 36096/6/031. Can you pitch 3 variations on the same core theme for a reality tv show if your pitching a prod. company? 2. Can you pitch a project with a version as a feature and a tv version? 3. How different does a project have to be to work with two different prod. companies on it? Christine Valada
# 35926/3/03Dear Ms. Valada, You told my how to go about the 'right'of a comic book, but is that the same for the rights of a feature film that's be "put on turnaround by a studio"? And how would I go about it or would I need a studio executive's help? Christine Valada
# 35836/2/03Okay, my partner and I are going to option the rights to the book even though it's not done. Next, I want the author to write the script with my partner. Assuming she'll agree, how is this handled legally? What kind of agrement do we need? 2. Do I need the script to start pitching? 3. If I'm just starting out should I take the project to studios or attach a bigger producer? Christine Valada
# 35816/2/03Dear Ms. Valada, I wanted to know how would I being an actor or screenwriter get the rights to a (example a toy company or comic book) to make a film at a later date? Who would I see, talk to, or go about doing so-- on my own? By taking a wild guest at a price, how much would the rights cost me? And do I need backing from a studio? Thank You Christine Valada
# 35796/1/03 I wrote a script for a producer under a work for hire agreement, but he never sent me a signed copy. Plus, I sent him the script on time, but he has failed to respond to the work, I keep getting "I've been to busy to look at it, but I will!" This has continued over two months now, past all the time limits on his part. What can I do about this? Christine Valada
# 35785/31/03Dear Ms. Valada, I wanted to know when an actor gets big (like Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts & Tom Cruise) 'because just their names alone sales movies' is it possible that they doesn't need that help of his/her agent, manager and/or business manager any more in order to get them acting jobs? Christine Valada
# 35635/30/03Dear Ms. Valada, I know for an upcoming actor or screenwriter it's necessary to have an agent and a lawyer on his behave. But, should he have a manager and business manager too. And if so, what is their job duties that the actor is paying him/her for? Christine Valada
# 35605/30/03Can you pitch a remake of a foreign film before aquiring the rights? Or will the people you pitch it to just go out and get teh rights themselves. I aimagine remake rights can be pretty expensive Christine Valada
# 35585/30/031. But can I option the material before the book is completed? 2. If I take a treatment of a true life story out is there any chance of doing anthing with it without having any kind of rights? 3. Out of curiousity, what is the most book rights go for and for what length of time is the agreement? Christine Valada
# 35555/29/03I want to do a feature on a mna who dies 70 years ago.He has a meooir that is nowhere to be found--the pub. is gone and I can't track down his family.A woman did 5 years of research on this guy and is in the process of writing a book.What is the best approach to this?Option the research material?Are there life rights considerations? Christine Valada
# 35545/29/03Dear Ms. Valada, I know all of the big film studios are in L.A., but I live on the East Coast. Can that be a problem in selling my screenplay? Christine Valada
# 35505/28/03Dear Christine: I have a two-part question. Is it important to copyright and register every script you write before you try and sell it? Also, I am a Canadian that will be moving to L.A. to pursue a screenwriting career. Will it be difficult to obtain a working visa or will getting an agent help me in that area? Can Canadians register with the WGA? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 35495/28/03When a screenwriter finishes his 'original screenplay', should he listed it with the WGA or find an agent first. And how would I get in contact with the WGA in the first place? Christine Valada
# 35475/27/03I'm trying to enter the film biz as an actor. I have a nickname that I would like to use as my public person but still keep my legal name. Can you point me to resources if this is legal and possible? Just as an example, if my real name is John Doe, but I would like to be known as Jackie Doe (but still keep my legal real name). Christine Valada
# 35465/26/03Dear Miss Valada, I wanted ask you a question. I wish to write a story about a true event that happened. It involves an unknown crime (small one) that an old lady told me she commited when she was young. Could I protect my source if I change the city and people involve? Would I have to reveal the name if asked? Thanks Annie Coutu Christine Valada
# 35305/22/03Re your response to #3312: Wow, you were alittle demeaning with your reply. I don't think I worded my question specific enough for you to understand. What I needed to know was if a WGA REGISTERED script was posted on a website such as writersscriptnetwork.com, is the logline protected? Christine Valada
# 35225/21/03if your script is registered with the writers guild and someone uses it without giving you any royalties for it, what can you do? Christine Valada
# 35135/19/03Hi Christina, A producer told me he sent my script to a major studio. How can I find out if they got it? If they have coverage on it? Thanks for you help, Robert Christine Valada
# 35085/18/03I would like to write new words for music that has already been published and copywrited(e.g., write new words to the tune of "Hey Jude"). What problems might I encounter and/or who do I contact for permission to use the music? Christine Valada
# 34735/12/03Dear Christine. I have a manager as of write now shopping around my screenplay. But the thing is....he's in Athens, Greece because he said those producers likes my material. And i haven't signed anything as of yet for him representing me. But my work is registered with the writers guild of america. should i be concerned? Christine Valada
# 34315/5/03Ms. Valada, I recently finished a superhero script only to find out that Marvel comic has a character with the same power. What can I do with the script now? Am I breaking any laws writing it in the first place? Christine Valada
# 34115/2/03Where can I find guidelines for standard terms for an author to option a book to a screenwriter? My mother, who now has senile dementia, authored 29 children's books. A screenwriter contacted me about optioning one of the books. Since the book is out-of-print, I am asking the publisher to relinquish rights and I will be negotiating directly with the screenwriter. Christine Valada
# 34085/1/03In a feature script I'm working on, I have two stoner girl characters named CHEE CHEE AND CHONGA. Is there some copyright infringment with this - in other words, do I need Cheech and Chong's permission to continue with this project as is? Thank you for your invalueable time!!! -Kimberly Christine Valada
# 33944/28/03I work for a company in the entertainment industry. If I sell a screenplay under a pseudonym, will the company have any rights to my work? Christine Valada
# 33924/28/03Ms. Valada, I was just wondering why it was possible for a music show like Nashville Star can copy American Idol exactly?? Christine Valada
# 33894/28/03 If an E. attorney is impressed by a produced idea will they take on representation for no fee ,for a time, in exchange for getting a future client? And who do you consider the best E . law firms for T.V. comedy? Who would have taken on a somewhat amatuer type show like the Michael Essaney show from indiana? It does't seem to "fit the mold" but is doing well none the less.Are things changing? Christine Valada
# 33834/27/03Dear Ms. Valada, I am hoping you can guide me in the right direction: To Where or To Whom do I go to secure the rights of a novel written decades ago. I am currently adapting one into a screenplay and am pretty sure there has yet to be film made in its likeness. Thank you in advance for your time. ~e.a.m. Christine Valada
# 33794/25/03I see movies that have the same story. Last night I saw a Jen. Lopez movie that was basically Pretty Woman. Preditor has almost all the same elements as Species. There have been so many books, comics, movies, etc., certain elements are just going get repeated. Can you explain further the issue of idea vs. expression? Please use a couple examples of specific scenes that have the same idea expressed in different ways. Christine Valada
# 33324/20/03Movies based on TRUE stories, does all parties have to agree (sign) OR can just one main person envolved sell the idea and when there is two different versions how do you avoid being sued? By telling both sides? Example (this is NOT my story) Someone accused of crimes alledges unethical behavior and/or lies law enforcement told to help someone be found guilty in which case you would have one person's word against anothers. Thanks! Christine Valada
# 33304/20/03I know a agent gets 10% of an actor's salary, but how much does a lawyer receive? Do you have to pay an agent if you don't sell a script or get an acting job? Christine Valada
# 33244/19/03When a screenwriter finishes his "original screenplay", so should he listed it with the WGA or find a agent first? And how would I listed it and get in contact with the WGA to do so? Christine Valada
# 33224/19/03I have over ten different and "original" storyplots ideas, being that I have no agent, lawyer or copyrights? What should I do for a film studio executive (like Harvey Weinstein or Steven Speilberg) to "listen" to them and buy add least one of them? Christine Valada
# 33124/17/03I've seen WritersScriptNetwork.com mentioned a few times in these Q&A's and it sounds like a great opportunity for a new writer to post their script for buyers to read. I'm wondering -- would it be easier for someone to steal a story from a script posted on a site like that, rather than from a script sent out to buyers from an agent or attorney? Christine Valada
# 33054/17/03I'm a screenwriter whose 'day job' is private investigations. My fictionalized script is inspired by an actual case. Changed ALL names and locations. Story path and outcome are vastly different. However there are unique details/circumstances that make the story compelling cannot be altered. I worry that some of the real people may see the similarity. What else can I do to adequately protect myself? Christine Valada
# 32964/16/03A man claiming to be an "Acquisitions Executive" turns out to be a fraud using a telemarketing company as a "front" to receive his mail in order to appear to be located in Beverly Hills. When I told him I was not interested in doing business with him, he began sending me bizarre and harassing emails. Is there some authority that I can/should expose him to? Should I get a lawyer? Christine Valada
# 32374/7/03Follow up on #2859. You said I might have problems with the Superhero character animal's name-Man. Would I be able to use the animal's name in conjunction with a word where the name isn't copyrighted such as Super-Animal's name? Christine Valada
# 32073/31/03I would like to find a literary management contract to review before I sit down with my lawyer, to save $, and to review before sitting down with the mgmt co that wants to sign me as a writer, what is average committment, what percent do they want? Christine Valada
# 31423/14/03Ms. Valada, do I have to register my script with the WGA or copyright it? And what are the consequences if I don't? What do you recommend? Christine Valada
# 31413/13/03Hi Christine! I have just completed a Propasal, Treatment & Shooting Script for a Documentary that I concieved. I teamed up with a Director who wanted ideas for a film. We've met a few times to discuss the piece. Now he wants his name on the front cover b4 I copywrite it. (His Dad is a Laywer and he wants to take it to him). Your thoughts please? Christine Valada
# 31373/12/03I'm writing a historical docu-drama of the WW II era using real names. All of my characters are deceased. They were in the employment of the US government or were from another nation during the time of the story. What liability fears should I face from relatives. I am trying to give a perspective to history that is probable but entirely fictional because it is based on conversations not in the public record. Christine Valada
# 31303/10/03Dear Ms. Valada: I am interested in doing a screenplay based closely on a series of dramatic real-life events involving a person who is still alive. He told his story in an obscure, self-published book and is quite interested in cooperating with the screenplay project. But he has asked to share 50-50 in my proceeds, which is obviously too high. What is the industry standard? Christine Valada
# 30993/3/03Ms. Valada, I know that when you are writing a story about a person, you must ask them first. However, what do you have to do if you're writing a story about yourself but include other people? Do you need to ask their permissions? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 30882/27/03Paramount Pictures bought a pitch "very" similar to my screenplay. How do I go about getting another studio or developement executive to look at my script or at least my logline or synopsis. I know studios are often in a neck-and-neck competition trying to out do the other by making similar films at the same time. Any advice you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thank you for you time, Jeffrey Dainton Christine Valada
# 30722/27/03I'd like to rewrite the screenplay for a film that was originally released in 1941. How do I determine if the rights are available and who owns them? Thanks, Christine Valada
# 30602/24/03Dear Christine, Do have to do any legal mumbo jumbo to use a pen name on a script or teleplay? Thanks! ABZ Christine Valada
# 30582/24/03Please tell me if Sydra-Techniques and Garret C. Maynard of The Gary-Paul Agency are legitimate agencies. I have read questions about the legitimacy of other agencies on your site and you have answered them. Please tell me what you know about these two companies. Christine Valada
# 30562/24/03Hi Christine. I have heard that writing a script about the military requires their permission. Is this true and how would I go about doing this? Christine Valada
# 30022/10/03I see that numerous production companies and studios say they will accept submissions and queries that have legal representation. How does this work? Does my attorney have to query the company, or can I do it with some kind of letter of introduction from my attorney so as to keep costs down? Christine Valada
# 30012/10/03Hi,I'm new at writing and would like to write and produce a new game show on our hometown cable station.Will my show be able to be stolen if me as a writer is not part of a writers network.Can they steal my Idea?What is the most in expensive way to protect my writing and ideas? THANK YOU,David Toma Christine Valada
# 30002/10/03Hi Christine my name is Alix and i am a model but i want to become an actress is there anyway i can speed up my carear or should i just sit back and wait, i was unsure that i would be able to become an actress from modeling. i feel as if i am not doing enough to pursue my dream. can you please help me. Christine Valada
# 29962/8/03Can we sell a synopsis to a producer? How would I do this? Do I get creditted as Story by if I don't write the screenplay? Christine Valada
# 29842/4/03Hi Christine, I was reading your legal form necessary for submitting screenplay material. One paragraph states that this company is not liable if upon my submission of material you also come into contact with other people's material that is similar to my idea and you pick their's. How can I ensure (even with registering)that you or someone reading my posted submission does not steal it? Thanks, Victoria Christine Valada
# 29631/29/03Hi Christine, How are you at divorce issues? I have written and registered several screenplays.("marketable concepts" he deludes himself into believing) Now, that we plan to divorce the Mrs. suddenly wants future potential profits of my work to be part of her settlement. This work has been my passion and hobby but has never provided income. Does the future ex-Mrs. have a valid claim? The most extreme interpretation of her contribution was proof-reading. Christine Valada
# 29481/28/03I am 13 years old. I have always wanted to become an actress. I have been in 3 school plays, several piano recitals, and I have been in 2 Marquis Theatre plays. I have a strong and clear voice but I don't know what it takes to be an actress. Christine Valada
# 29291/24/03I am looking for an agent/representation for my first screenplay but the first release I got (from a Production/Managerial company who wanted to read my script) protected their company from using "identical or similar material" in the future, and said that we did not have a confidential nor fiduciary relationship. Am I getting a raw deal before I even start or are most releases worded like this and bound by these conditions? Christine Valada
# 28941/15/03I have a Disney project to write can you help me Christine Valada
# 28931/14/03Hi, when local non-profit companies (or any group or business), such as a theatre group or ballet company, put on original shows (be it recitals or original stories) and use copywrited music, what is the normal course of action? Obviously, dance groups perform to popular music at state fairs all the time (whether it's right or wrong), but if the group is charging admission, what process should they go through? Expensive? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 28901/13/03Hi, I have written a romantic comedy. It starts with a song I have composed myself. It moves the plot forward and is an important part of the script. Should I copyright the lyric and melody separatly from the script? What, if anything, happens about royalties for the song in this situation? Yours, Paddy Christine Valada
# 28811/10/03Hi and thanks for reading my question. I'm 14 and would love to become an actress, but my parents don't think that it's a career that I could earn a living off of, so they won't let me take lessons at a school. When I turn 15 I'm going to get a job and get myself lessons but for the time being,do you have any good ideas? Christine Valada
# 28591/3/03My story has a superhero character with the same name and outfit of a wildlife animal. I did a Trademark search and found one hit for someone who does live entertainment and TV programs: singing, dancing and comedy routines. Does this mean I can or cannot use this name for a film? Christine Valada
# 28581/3/03Hello, I am working on a screenplay based on real events. These events were well publicized by the news media and a "True-Crime" book was also published about them. Some aspects of the screenplay will be fictionalized while others deal with the facts published in the Media. I was wondering if copyright violations and/or defamation lawsuits could stem from this screenplay, even with the names and characters being changed. Thank You Chris Christine Valada
# 28561/2/03I am hoping to attend the Pitch session in Feb. How much am I looking at to attain representation? Also, what services are the most beneficial by aquiring such? Christine Valada
# 28551/2/03I am hoping to attend the Pitch session in Feb. How much am I looking at to attain representation? Also, what services are the most beneficial by aquiring such? Christine Valada
# 28491/1/03Hi Christine. My friend and I are starting up a film production group. We are currently applying for a service mark for the name. On the form to apply for the service mark it says "Enter the specific goods and/or services associated with the mark." My question is what is a film production group's (Dreamworks for example) specific product or service? Thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 284212/30/02Hi Christine. About two years ago, I wrote a pilot that was optioned by NBC TV's PSNBC project. They never picked up the option and I considered the matter closed... until this week. It seems NBC coming out with a new show that is suspiciously similar to my pilot. Changed, of course... but still similar, down to names and an unusual love interest. Do you think I have any recourse? Christine Valada
# 283912/28/02I'm interested in writing 3 screenplays based upon 3 novels, published from 1943-1950. There was one film and a TV series from the 1st in the trilogy airing in 1950's. Author is deceased. How do I go about getting permission to write my own screenplays based upon these children's books - do I need to contact the publisher, the studio who produced the movie/tv series or the estate's attorneys or all 3? Christine Valada
# 283312/24/02Dear Christine , I did look back in reference to question # 2697 and I did not find anything. Anyways , could you explain when you would recommend Trade Dress Law in reference to protecting a character? Thank You. Christine Valada
# 282812/22/02Ms. Valada, What advice would you give to a first-year law student who can't afford to intern for free (at entertainment companies) during the summers? Any special advice since I'm (1) African-American, (2) female, (3)lacking industry contacts, and (4)older than the average law student (currently 28). I volunteer for the entertainment law organizations at school. I also plan to do an entertaiment law clinic during my 2nd/3rd year. Thanks so much! Christine Valada
# 282412/19/02When I sign a release form do I send my script along too? Or do I have to wait for a response after receiving a copy of the release? Christine Valada
# 281312/17/02Hi Christine, Do you have any idea how much a writer might earn if a company wants to use one of his or her characters in their own in-house script? I couldn't find anything on the WGA minimums for licensing a character, and am wondering if the writer needs to come up with a $$ figure. Hope you can offer some insight. Thanks! Christine Valada
# 279212/12/02Hi. Hopefully a simple queston. I want to write a film based on a Victorian novel. A film version was made in 1964 but, given that the author of the original novel has been dead for more than 70 years - and should therefore be in the public domain - can I go ahead and write the screenplay? Or does the 1964 movie complicate things? Christine Valada
# 279112/12/02Dear Christine, Your help makes this legal world a little less scary, thank you for that :) I am producing a feature (LowBdgt). I also happen to be the owner of the script. Defying gravity, I've managed to attract talented people to pull the movie. Q.: How do you split revenue between 5 people (sound, graphics, 3D, Assistant Director and me) - should it be % from a distributing deal? Or else? SOS Christine Valada
# 278912/11/02If a good entertainment attorney is interested in you as a long term client, will they charge you hourly, or jsut work on commision from your project sales like how an agent would? 2. Will an attorney help a client find an agent and manager? Does it make sense early in a carrer to have as much rep. as possible? How do you know who's goodwill a good one take on anyone for hourly? Christine Valada
# 275112/8/02I was wondering how I, a 13-year-old girl, could become an actress. I come from a small state,South Carolina, and my dad works in advertising so it would be almost impossible to get a job in a comercial. I have wanted to be an actress since I was little and your imput would be very helpful. Christine Valada
# 271912/1/02My partner and I are interested in starting our own production company to produce our own independent movies. We know we need a tax ID number, but we need to know if there is anything else we need to do. Also, we currently live in 2 different states. I will be moving to her state eventually, but will not be there until after we incorporate. Will this be a problem? Christine Valada
# 271711/29/02Hi Christine, Another writer brainstormed a movie premise with me. We wrote 15-pages together then I took the concept, started fresh and wrote the entire 120-page script. (Then re-wrote it 8-times) The project has generated commercial interest. We registered it with WGA in both our names, but I wonder if I have a legal right/claim to more than 50% of its value. Christine Valada
# 270511/25/02If I sell a spec and it ends up being rewritten several times by other writers and is made into a movie but I don't receive any credits. Is the fact that I originally wrote it verifiable anywhere so that I could put it on a resume? Even if the title changed. Christine Valada
# 269711/22/02Christine, How can you copyright or protect a character? This is an insect which has special abilities in a comedy.We actually filmed a live insect and have a fake rubber stand-in but of course his voice is overdubbed but this character is unique and important to the TV show I'm writing. Also how do you protect a original cartoon? Christine Valada
# 269611/22/02Christine, How can you copyright or protect a character? This is an insect which has special abilities in a comedy.We actually filmed a live insect and have a fake rubber stand-in but of course his voice is overdubbed but this character is unique and important to the TV show I'm writing. Also how do you protect a original cartoon? Christine Valada
# 265411/11/02Is this standard in a release form? The Submitted Material shall not obligate you to negotiate with me nor entitle me to any compensation if you determine that you have an independent legal right to use such other material which is not derived from me (either because such features or elements were not new or novel, or were not originated by me, or were or may hereafter be independently created and submitted by other persons including your employees). Christine Valada
# 265211/9/02I have ideas but I am by far not a writer. I have decided to contact a writer to share ideas with. Since I will be dealing with someone I don't know I just want to know how I can protect my ideas. Is there some agreement that can be legally arranged between me and the writer before discussing the story idea? Thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 265111/8/02Christine, If you have an original idea for a TV show and you produced (2) 1/2 HR. shows in the can...is it a good idea to show it on a cable access channel and put it in the public domain before getting it to agents etc.???Also what is the most sucessful way to get around the syndrome.."We do not accept unsolicited material" ???? Christine Valada
# 264611/7/02 I was searching this site for answers when I saw a response to a question asked about music production. Your response was very rude. It is obvious to me that some people with degree's have no kind of interpersonal skills. Intelligence does not give you a right to be demeaning. Christine Valada
# 263311/4/02When the day comes that I happen to sell my first screenplay or option it ( crosses fingers ) aside from the celebratory happy dance, that out of the way, what does the IRS have to say about all this and how much of my well-earned fee is taken? What goes on when I sell? Or does an agent take care of all this? And what about foreign screenwriters? It's all about taxes now.... Christine Valada
# 262911/2/02I have succeeded in writing a unusual spectacular story, “The Prayer”. Such a plot has not been created in any movie or writing. I do believe that with such a plot a very interesting (and profitable) film can be born. Read the story; http://jacobg.hypermart.net/The-Prayer.htm; and see for yourself. I would like to know: How can I find a proper agent or producer from Hollywood? Thank you Jacob Greenberg Christine Valada
# 261710/25/02I am asked to sign a contract in which the producer/agent will receive 10% of the total 'writer's fees'. This sum to be forwarded by the company itself directly to the producer before or at the same time as monies are forwarded to the writer. He shall also be given at least 5% of what I could receive as profits. Q: Is 'at least' OK? What is the 'company'? What does 'profits'mean? Thank you for your answer. Christine Valada
# 261410/24/02Hello Christine, I have a query for you regarding Lillian Laserson. I want to get permission from D.C. comics to have the Superman Shield placed on my guitar. I plan to have the shield carved out of mother of pearl and then inlayed into the back of the guitar body. Should I contact Lillian directly? Do you know how to get in touch with her? Sincerely, Jeff Everest Christine Valada
# 261010/23/02Hi Christine! I was just wondering if you could tell me how much a average script tends on making. I know all scripts are varied but how much should a good writer expect to make on his first script? Christine Valada
# 260310/21/02The project: a famous celebrity. Estate does not appear willing to allow a film . If we proceed, but can not obtain rights how likely estate can block, if it includes facts of private life (most of the people around celeb are dead and only 2 books)? can we use facts of books w/o using actual book structure, expression etc. since they deplict facts? (esate owns the two books on celeb) Christine Valada
# 260210/21/02I wrote a screenplay based on a non-fiction book. Author of that book has recently been successfully sued for writing/profiting from that book as he violated a confidentiallity agreement by writing it. Book company gave rights back to that author. He can no longer profit from that book. Does all that kill any prospects of getting screenplay rights? Christine Valada
# 258710/14/02 I have wriiten a sreenplay where a character (George) is also the narrator. Shall I refer to him as Narrator or George(VO) when there is a narative. Christine Valada
# 258310/13/02Hello.I recently pitched and left ideas with companies.Should I be okay as they should be professional enough not to 'screw' writers or should I register these 22 ideas with the WGA? Thanks for your time. Christine Valada
# 258110/5/02Hello Ms.Valada, what is the best path to take in order to be an actress? Christine Valada
# 257510/2/02Dear Christine, I am a U.S. resident, but have a Co-writer that is a resident of the UK… Does this pose a problem (That you know of) in terms of WGA (Screenplay) registration??? Thank You. Christine Valada
# 257110/2/02Dear Christine: I've written a screenplay based on a story published in Esquire in 1938. I have been told that it is in the public domain. Is there any way I can verify this? Also, Paramount did a movie based on this story in 1954. If it is still under copyright, Can I assume that Paramount still owns the rights? And what does that mean for me? Thanks, George Christine Valada
# 256910/1/02Christine, hi! I am optioning rights to WW II book covering and expanding on material found in two prior books already optioned by someone else. If I incorporate a scene into my script found not in "my" book but in the earlier one/s, can the second party sue me? -thanks Christine Valada
# 25549/29/02Do you know where I can get a 9mm baretta silencer? Christine Valada
# 25459/26/02What can I do to secure a financier(s) for a film that I want to produce based on my own screenplay? Christine Valada
# 25029/17/02If I take notes from a script coach - who is paid for her services - and I incorporate some of her suggestions into my story (minor structural and character development ideas), can she turn around and ask for story credit/money at some later date? How can I protect myself in that case? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 24869/12/02I've been sending out queries to agents and producers. I'm keeping a record of everything I do. Now when it comes time to send someone a script legally which is better... Registered Mail or something like FedEx, UPS?...Thanks... Christine Valada
# 24739/5/02You had a week to stew about my resonse to your lack of tact, and the best you could come up with is "don't bother"? Christine Valada
# 24709/4/02Dear Christine, thank you 1000s times, you're my muse. Sorry for being such a pain in the ass, I have the technology (subsurface scattering ultra realistic 3d rendering). Question: If you were in my shoes, would you jump into the maelstrom? Christine Valada
# 24629/4/02Dear Christine, People say the script is a piece of cake. Paranoid nightmares pushed me to shooting the feature on DV. I came up with a controversial decision of placing Hollywood $$$ stars, digitally created actors in the movie. The outcome of such an approach would be realistic Brad Pits in a low budg. flick. Question: actions and their effectiveness by for example, Bruce Willis's lawyers regarding the approach. Thank you in advance, Steve Christine Valada
# 24378/28/02I wrote the other day about my $750 option. You asked: "Wow. Can I sell you a bridge to Brooklyn?" No you cannot sell me a bridge. However, I have a book on tactfullness. Perhaps I can sell that to YOU." Christine Valada
# 24348/27/02I signed an option for my family documentary for $750 last year, requiring my rewrite based on producers’ "Written Notes." Producers have given me partial outlines and sporadic ideas and want ME doing an outline/storyboard before my re-write. Does my required-rewrite clause impliedly require me to also provide outlines first? And is there an "industry standard" definition of "Written Notes?" I expected a FULL written analysis of EXACTLY what they wanted, not piecemeal ideas. Christine Valada
# 24318/26/02Hello, Wonder if you could please tell me with Charlton Heston and Sylvester Stallone's snail-mail addresses? c/o agency would be just fine too. Thanks for your help, Kent. Christine Valada
# 24268/25/02Hi Christine, I am doing a rewrite of my script for a known production company. However, the material hasn't been formally optioned because the company doesn't have a discretionary fund. In lieu of a monetary option, what paperwork can I get with the company to protect myself? Christine Valada
# 23908/16/02How can i become an actress if i live in Virginia and i am in school so i dont have any time or money to go to NY or LA ? Christine Valada
# 23678/15/02I'm non-WGA, negotiating to write a screenplay based on a logline written by the producer. Up-front money is small, but contract calls for contingent compensation based on film's production budget... provided I receive screenplay credit. Credit determination, however, is left up to producer. Should I fight to have credits arbitrated by a third party -- if not WGA, then someone else? FYI, he's raised a certain amount of capital, but further financing will be necessary. TIA Christine Valada
# 23648/14/02Examples I've seen of short form LPOs don't include any provisions for the writer sharing in any revenue from sale of videos and DVDs, nor from cable broadcasts. Is this negotiated separately, or is it something that needs to be written into the LPO. In this case, I'm dealing with an independent producer who is hoping to shop the script to studios. Thanks Christine Valada
# 23528/12/02I just finished a page-one rewrite of a script based on an idea I had two years ago. I developed my idea & wrote a draft with a partner. We didn't see eye to eye, and he removed himself verbally from the project. Now two years later, he magically appears and wants 35%. I offered 16% and shared story credit. No dice. Am I being fair? What are my options? Christine Valada
# 23478/11/02I'm a playwright who would like to adapt and/or parody literary works, especially short stories for one-act plays. When exactly does a work become public domain? And can you parody works even if they are not in the public domain? Christine Valada
# 23398/8/02Hi, Christine - I've taken "notes" from a partner on a screenplay of mine. All of the characters and situations are for the most part mine (a 90/10 percent split between my input and my partner's). The script is copyrighted under my name. My partner and I are both involved in marketing the script, but disagree about where and to whom it should be sent. What are my rights? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 23368/7/02 I optioned a script last year. The contract is to pay me WG minimums for the script and one re-write upon the first day of shooting. I started working with the director and went and did three quick re-writes. I did this without asking for any concessions. Everything is going well, but there will be more re-writes over the next six months. I have no credits and the working relationship is excellent. Any suggestions? Christine Valada
# 22877/28/02A signatory agent, Charlotte Gusay, wants a signed release when I submit my screenplay. The form describes how to submit the screenplay, then asks me to sign at the bottom, and in parenthesis says (to authorize your release). Is this legit? Could I type on it that my signature means the Gusay agency has permission to read it while considering whether to represent me, and does not extend beyond that? Christine Valada
# 22817/22/02Hi Christine, A year or so ago, I got into a notes-sharing dialogue by e-mail with an exec interested in my spec script. No deal was ever done, but an improved script resulted. Apparently, he's lost interest. Now, I'm flogging the script again and getting some new nibbles. My question is, does that exec have any claim on the improved script if someone else offers me a deal? Christine Valada
# 22707/17/02Follow-up to the question regardng liens. Are there interest charges included in that, and who actually ends up paying the lien...the writer or the production company now producing the movie? Thanks again for your advice! Christine Valada
# 22677/16/02An independent producer has suggested a 1 one year option @ $500, with 2 one year extentions @ $2000 each. I understand the low option dollars because it's money out of his pocket. But is it wise to tie the script up for up to three years? I'll need an Entertainment Lawyer but I'm just trying to determine how legit this is first. Thanks for advice! Christine Valada
# 22667/15/02Hello, Can you please clarify the problem of getting people to sign off...if your script can in some way be damaging to them. Actually, my question is more to the point..IF most people would not recognize who you MIGHT have used as a "model" , then should you be concerned about it? If you say it is 'fictional' is that good enough?Thanks! Cecilia Christine Valada
# 22647/15/02Are liens against writers common in reversion clauses of purchasing agreements? Does a lien mean that the writer basically "reimburses" the purchasing price of the script to the former producer if another production company produces the film at a later time? Is there any reason why a writer should agree to such a clause? Christine Valada
# 22617/15/02In "Net Profits" of an LPO: "...the Producer shall pay the writer 4% of 100% of the net profits...Net profits shall be defined, computed, accounted for, and paid to writer pursuant to producer's standard net profit definition which definition shall be subject to good faith negotiation within the parameters of those and conditions customarily accorded persons of writer's stature in the motion picture industry." I'm suspicious. Should this be rewritten using gross points? Christine Valada
# 22577/13/02Dear Christine: I have the exclusive rights to a book. I wrote a draft of a screenplay and found that the story in the book is too weak. I changed the story but am using some characters in the book. Is it still "based on the book? Do I need the rights? Is it too late at this point to avoid risking a law suit ? Christine Valada
# 22507/11/02 There is a local independent film being shot here in town about my friend "joe". The writer claims the film is not about "joe", but the script says otherwise. "joe" had an interview with the writer a few years ago for an article that was never run. Besides shelling out the big bucks for an Itellectual Property lawyer, is there something else we can do? Christine Valada
# 22367/6/02Christine, I am working on a screenplay based on a case study by a clinical psycologist from another country. This study is published but that was over 50 years ago. Do I need any legal releases from this persons family to do this story??? I was married to an Attourney once and know how to do legal research so if you can guide me I would appreciate it very much. Reagan Christine Valada
# 22036/25/02What are the differences in protections afforded by registration with the WGA versus the Copyright Office? I read that a copyright prior to infringement allows recovery of attorney fees in the event of litigation. Is this the only benefit? Christine Valada
# 22026/25/02I share stories on a writing forum. Recently I learned that someone who knew about the group sold movie options to a story identical to mine. Since the concept was very unique I want to know if there is a place that list options recently purchased? I saved the story to cd, is acreation date on the cd enough to take action? I now question whether I should submit it anywhere... Christine Valada
# 21796/20/02Thanks for the responce. Because I am young, I may not be takin too seriously.So, where exactly do I get an agent, to beef up my chances. Christine Valada
# 21666/15/02Hello I am 15 and am currently writing a screen play with my friend.We are dedicating our time to this but are not sure as comming from New Zealand how we will present it and well what process we go though to get it published and reconised?My dream is to be a screen play writer with my friend and we both have a passion for writing.Thank you very much for you're time you'res sincarly Harrison Cherrie. Christine Valada
# 21616/13/02Hi, I'm interested in telling my own story about the war and violence in Colombia since the 40's to the present day. please advise me on who to contact or what I could do to make this into a movie. Thank you for your attention. Christine Valada
# 21336/6/02I have an idea for a great T. V. show. How can I get a meeting with a network to pitch my show's ideas to them? (ex.Disney) Christine Valada
# 21216/1/02In what ways can I contact the heirs of an author? I am interested in getting a hold of the descendants of an author for one of his old books, which I am interested in making a screenplay out of. I know these situations are very "sticky", but I can not seem to find how to get a hodl of them. I know who the person is who holds the copyrights, but cant find them. Christine Valada
# 21155/25/02A celebrity developed a script for a superhero character, but it failed. I developed an original story with my own character, but the superpower is the same. Am I infringing on the celebrity’s copyright? Examples of characters with the same powers: Superman and The Great American Hero, vampire characters, and Spleen from “Mystery Men, who has the same power as Howard Stern's character “Fartman.” Christine Valada
# 21145/25/02i am an indian television journalist and wanted to do a story on script doctors if u can pls guide me about the subject and if u can pls send me ur e-mail id or number. Thanks rgds vibha Christine Valada
# 21095/23/02How would I find out who , if anyone owns the rights to and old film/book idea that I could then purchase and re-do or adapt? Thankyou. Christine Valada
# 21075/23/02Do I have to acquire rights to a story if the story was an event in World War II? I am using 4 books as material to obtain the facts of the story, but I am worried that I need to acquire rights. Thank You, Jeff Walzer Christine Valada
# 21035/21/02I am writing a screenplay about an historical event that happened in World War II. I am using three books, a documentary, and a newspaper article to gather the details of what happened. Can I use all of the soldiers' names as the screenplay is based on a true story? I am using all material as a guideline, in addition to making sure that I am faithful to the details of the event. Thank You, Jeff Walzer Christine Valada
# 21005/21/02I am a former photojournalist, and have completed a screenplay based on previous reportage. My script evolves about a dangerous domestic fuel product used in homes throughout the US, and the eventual disaster caused - the destruction of a major city. Is there a method of calculating approximate budget of this film? I believe that current modern technology will decrease the cost of a disaster film production. Do you agree? Christine Valada
# 20795/13/02 I have recently completed English 304 Introduction to Screenwriting. My screenplay "Mass For The Dead", is a rational explanation of death which confirms the Universal Belief that we do cross over to the Spiritual World where we lead very active and involved lives with our loved ones who still remain in the Physical World. If you have any thoughts on a way to sell this Supernatural Love Story please contact me. Joe Elward joadamel@aol.com Christine Valada
# 20625/6/02Hello Ms. Valada, I am writing a screenplay-based on a true story. My friend brought me the idea, provided investment($3K), and introduced me to the people. I spent 1.5 years on research, secured funding($60K) for additional writer and also $20K of my own money. What would be a fair offer to my friend? He wants producers's credit and part ownership of the script. I've done all the work. Thanks, K Christine Valada
# 20555/3/02Christine, I have written a play (which central to the plot ) involes a well known person. Their name is part of the title as well. Do I need permission to use their name and persona? Will (For example) the WGA register a work of this nature? If not, how should I go about obtaining such consent? Thank you for just being you. Christine Valada
# 20374/26/02I was recently offered an if-come deal memorandum by an independent producer. I am a bit confused about a deferred option payment, could you translate it into layman's terms? Does this mean that I will only be paid $2000 if the script is sold? Is this a fairly standard contract? Christine Valada
# 20174/20/02i am a foreign national who is about to write a script based on a popular novel that was originally published in 1981 in a small european country in. i'm currently in the personal contact with the author who has given me verbal agreement to adapt his book for screenplay. do i still have to obtain the rights from the last publisher of his book or will a legal agreement with the author suffice? Christine Valada
# 19784/7/02I have a professional name that I go by (I work in local tv and radio), as does my husband, that is a variation on my (our) real name(s). I would like to be known as this name as well in my writing endeavors. Should I query and correspond with the professional name I use or my legal name? Christine Valada
# 19623/31/02If someone changes the title on a script and sends it out, is the copyright and WGA registration void? I often times change my title because I come up with a better one later. Does it mean that the material is not protected if a studio shows interest because the script does not carry the old title which it was protected under. Thanks Christine Valada
# 19583/29/02I am interested in making a film, except i dont have a script yet and can't seem to find one.is there a website that i could possibly get a copy right free script or something like that from.(i am not doing this as a serious bussines venture but purely for my own entertainment) Christine Valada
# 19303/25/02Dear Christine, I have a sequel completed, and found out that the actor in the original film has expressed interest in doing a sequel. No one is currently writing one. This actor's ideas are similar to what I've written, and his manager produces many of the pet-projects he chooses. Should I query this actor's manager? Thanks for your input. T.R. Christine Valada
# 19273/25/02At what point do historical figures and their stories become open to all to write stories? about without getting written approval? Lyndon Johnson and individuals who were alive during the the 19th century, do I need to be concerned about going to their ancestors to get approval to write about these people? How does that work? Christine Valada
# 19263/25/02Could you tell me the correct procedure to follow for gaining the rights to use a screenplay script as the basis for a play? Whose permission do I need to get and how should I go about contacting them? Many thanks Christine Valada
# 19213/24/02How do I get life rights from a person who's still living> Christine Valada
# 19103/20/02I have a producer looking to produce my award winning script and I don't have a entertainment lawyer. I live in Pennsylvania (A NY lawyer would be great), and I also wrote a novel which is gettin good reviews. Any suggestions on getting a good NY entertainment lawyer (or a CA lawyer if that's in my best interests - I would like to have face-to-face meetings, and NY is closer, of course) Christine Valada
# 19043/18/02Christine, In regard to large law firms, what is the general procedure for an associate to become a partner in that firm? Thank you for your time. Suzon Christine Valada
# 18733/9/02 I am writing a SP about a fictious character involved in a historical, well documented expedition-1890s. My source material is several published books and journals, and orginal material in two research libraries. All real persons are secondary characters. My question is who should I be getting permission from before I start writing? Can a research library hold copyright to what original documents they hold in their archives? Thanks for your time! Christine Valada
# 18703/9/02Three years ago I sent out a script to many production companies. Recently I found a script sold that is almost exactly like mine. The logline is the same. And I wanted to know how I can obtain a copy of the sold script to see if they are the same. WGA was of no help. I need to know how I can handle this. Christine Valada
# 18613/7/02I need to protect a business concept that includes a cable series, web site, and accompanying literature. How would I protect this and what would I need to submit? I do have domain rights to the title on the web. Christine Valada
# 18192/14/02How much are film rights worth for a foreign short story due to enter public domain in 2010 (because author died in 1940)? Author's rights belong to a foreign writer's union. The union says I need to buy the rights but didn't mention a price. What should I offer? Should I pay or just write it and worry about rights later if it ever finds a buyer before 2010? Christine Valada
# 18182/14/02I came up with a great idea for a movie. But it is based on a current cable tv show, it's characters, and the real life company they work for. Can I use their characters and company name in the treatment? Is this a violation of copywrite and trademark laws? Isn't this done all the time in TV with spec scripts for sitcoms, soaps, ect? Christine Valada
# 18172/13/02I submitted a screenplay for a copyright back in November. Unfortunately, it's sitting in the DC office due to the anthrax scare. Fortunately, my screenplay is registered with the WGA. My question is, "Is the WGA registration sufficient for now?" In the meantime, I plan to UPS my screenplay directly to the Library of Congress. Christine Valada
# 18112/10/02Iknow that many novelists have taken Irish citizenship for the tax incentives they offer and, thankfully, I'm about to join their ranks. Is it legal for a producer to buy the dramatic rights and, as a condition of the contract and (net) purchase price, ask for/require partial funding by the writer from his gross proceedes? Christine Valada
# 18102/8/02I am writing my first script. The story is based on some exploits of mine as a teen. My question centers around the use of a few particular songs by a certain rock group. We really lived their songs and the additions of the songs in certain areas of the script seem to add to it. Am I off base in wanting to write certain songs into the script. Thanks for your help. Christine Valada
# 17891/29/02My friend and I wrote the first draft of a screenplay and hired another writer to complete it. We sent her a letter requesting that she acknowledges her receipt of payment in full. She stated that she did not want to sign it if it means that she will not receive "credit" in the future. Since she accepted the payment do we owe her additional credit- either a film credit or rights to this screenplay? Christine Valada
# 17881/29/02Dear Christine, I have just recently finished my first spec script and am getting ready to register it with the WGA, my problem is this, I want to use the name of a song as the title of my movie. First, can I do that or do I need to get the consent of the artist who wrote the song, and second can I still submit my script for registration with out a name. Christine Valada
# 17851/28/02Dear Christine, my character wants to fake his wife's death to collect the insurance. His wife is currently in a vegetated state. Once hosptalized, he conviniently arranged for her to stay with him under the care of a nurse. What sort of documents and/or reports would he have to forge? Can you think of a scenerio where this would work? Thanks for your time and advice. Christine Valada
# 17801/26/02I am not from US, but writing in English, trying to sell the script to US companies. I have got the scripts registered with the local writers association. Would that protect me, or should I have it registered elsewhere - WGA etc too? - JR Christine Valada
# 17561/17/02I am in the process of writing a script of a true story. It features around a crime and court case. My wuesstion is: Some of the characters are a bit shady and will not be protraid in a good light. How can I use their real names in the movie without being sued? Thanks for your help. Christine Valada
# 17501/15/02I want to write a spec-script, about a famous historical figure. A novel has already been produced, about him. I just want to enter my script into contests. Do I have to obtain any rights? Christine Valada
# 17391/13/02I have written a screenplay that is based on the songs of a particular artist. In order for the story to work, the songs must be in the screenplay. I know that the songs are copywrited. What is the protocol on using lyrics and music from copywrited songs in the screenplay? Christine Valada
# 17221/8/02My screenplay is a thinly-disguised, highly sensational account of my years (1980-1985) with a metropolitan police department. I’ve changed the names (including my own) and exercised some creative license, where necessary. As most of the police personnel involved are still living, they’re likely to recognize their characters and the events depicted, many involving serious criminal offenses which weren’t reported or prosecuted. What potential legal repercussions might I expect should this screenplay ever get produced? Christine Valada
# 17161/7/02Tips for chics? I'm not prepared to sell my body/soul to get a production deal. Bloodshot eyes, a couple of Red Bulls and writing all night is what I have to offer. What's your spin on securing a female agent/attorney? I won't ask who the best femme agents/attornies in town are, but a few research tips on "figuring out" who the key players are sure would help. Regards, Z Christine Valada
# 17151/6/02Hi, Christine - I've written a spec screenplay based on events that took place in WW2. Two minor characters in the story were actual persons living at the time (now deceased); all others, including the main character, are fictional. If I refrain from recounting actual events that happened to specific indivuduals, but instead craft a story around the general situation, do I still need to secure the rights to the story? Thanks. Christine Valada
# 17041/3/02How close to the book can a screenplay be without infringing on its copyright? Christine Valada
# 16971/1/02I am writing a screenplay based on a book in public domain. However, a movie was already made of that book in the 50's. Do I need to get permission or a copyright from the the film company who made the movie, even though I am writing from the book? Would I need to choose a different name for the screenplay? Thanks for your time. -Jack Christine Valada
# 16961/1/02Hi. I recently had the honor of being picked to write a docudrama for a television company. What around the amount should I ask to be paid? What is the average for a docudrama writer to be paid in this situation? Christine Valada
# 168312/17/01Thanks, Christine, for the answer (above). Here's one: I've done a period crime thriller based on real events. There are multiple books onthe subject,but what I've done is go back to primary (contemporary) research and fictionalized everything else assiduously. Do you forsee any major problems if I've done my job cautiously? Christine Valada
# 166812/12/01Thanks for the prompt reply to #1660. My attorney has explained this, but how are damages approximated before the fact when anticipating an infringement or plagiarism* case? Considering lost production bonus(es), residuals and potential employment, it must be a fortune on a big film. *Mine is a contractual case, but you get the idea. Christine Valada
# 166712/11/01This may be lame, but what is a "treatment" and how do I begin to write one? Thanks, Elsa Christine Valada
# 166512/11/01I am needing copyright information for the writing a current film (updating the situation) based on a previous film (from the 1940s or 1950s). I do understand the basics of copyright, but I am searching for a clearer understanding of derivative works, and at what point a new work goes from a "re-make" to "based on" and finally to "inspired by." How does copyright play into these different states? Many thanks! Christine Valada
# 166412/11/01thanks for answering my question. I have no intention of sending the script out for selling WITHOUT the author's (of the game) permission. Authorizing the script was going to be my next step anyway. so do you think it'll be safe to negotiate the deal NOW with the author for rights to the storyline of the game? what do you suggest i should do next? once again thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 166212/10/01If I sent my screenplay to someone and they shared it with person 2 without my knowledge, how easy would it be for person 2 to run with the idea with the claim that I never sent the screenplay to him? My screenplay is WGA registered and the copyright is pending. I'm assuming if the similarities are truly multiple and uncanny then I am still protected and would have a case. Christine Valada
# 166112/10/01Hi. i have recently written a script that is based on a computer game. The only thing I'm worried about is the subject of 'copyright'. i mean, is it me who is supposed to sort out the rights to a story that is based on a computer game or is it something the studio/purchaser got to sort out with the game company? thank you for your time. Christine Valada
# 166012/10/01I wrote on assignment, from a comic book. It was purchased by a 2nd company, revised by the director, who boiled it down to a treatment. This was sold to a 3rd company-- which optioned our script but hasn't exercised the option, throwing it into WGA limbo. My attorney (SS, of KGM; you and Len both know her) is terrific, but seems stumped. Ha-a-a-lp! Christine Valada
# 165212/8/01HI, My friend and I were thinking of creating a screenplay from one of our works. I want to be part of the process because I don't want to watch the movie and see my name associated with something I'm not proud of. What rights do I retain after selling a work, and how involved can I be with the production of the film? Christine Valada
# 164112/4/01Fictionalizing history: A fictional conspiracy story is set in Washington in a specific period. It uses real people (president, cabinet members) as characters. But all the real people are long dead, and they were all public figures. Does this mean I have free license to portray real (but deceased) government officials doing any sort of villainous thing, to exaggerate their known actions, and have them participate in imagined events without any risk of being sued? Christine Valada
# 164012/3/01Please explain to me the process from a producers position looking for a script, what is the dialogue I would have with a writer Thank you Christine Valada
# 162211/27/01Hi, I'm desperate for a resource which covers the release of photographs by a photographer to me for use in my documentary. I'm just about ready to re-write my model release form and use that. Any advice on this would be greatly appreciated. Christine Valada
# 161711/26/01I am trying to write a script and I need help because I have no writing experience. I have no doubt I will one day write great scripts. You don't know me but I will be great and all I need is help getting there. Tell a freind, hear me out, or just listen to one pitch. I need help to make it will you help? Contact 330-782-3114orantdogg999@yahoo.com Christine Valada
# 160711/25/01I am planning on writting a short screenplay based on a short story. The author is dead. I'm not shure how to get the right to write a screenplay based on it and how to sell it could please help me. And would it be legal for me to write a screenplay based on it. Thankyou Christine Valada
# 160611/25/01I've completed a writer-for-hire assignment and been paid by the producer who hired me. The script's my original idea & WGA registered by me but now the producer's property. The producer is upset that I WGA registered the script claiming this will cause ownership issues with distributors. He insists I transfer my WGA registration to him. Is this wrong? And can I still use it as a writing sample to procure writing jobs? Christine Valada
# 160511/23/01Christine,who,s in the market to buy famley shows and ideas for such?? Christine Valada
# 158111/13/01Hi there, thank you for answering our questions. I have been asked to write a screenplay for a woman with an interesting life story to tell. I am a beginning screenwriter, but have years in production. I feel the WGA rates are too high to charge her. What is a fair amount? Any resources would be appreciated, they seem hard to find. T/Y Christine Valada
# 157811/13/01Are there any legal issues with titling your screenplay with a trademarked or copyrighted term or phrase? For example, the word "threepeat" is protected. Would it be legal to use "Threepeat" as a title for a film without any legal hassle? If not, what are the potential hassles and what are ways to avoid them? Christine Valada
# 157311/11/01How can I start my own production company. I want all my screenplays and tv spec, to go under my own production company. It's sorter like when actors and other stars open their own production companys. They either read or write the scripts then send them over to a major studio, or production company. How do I go about opening my own and getting it copyrighted. Thanks Christine Valada
# 156411/6/01How would I go about getting a sitcom idea copyrighted. Could I copyright my treatment and if so what form would I need to use Christine Valada
# 155811/5/01Ms. Valada, I'm thinking about writing a screenplay based on a computer game. Do I need to get in contact with the game developers before I write it, or invest the time and write the SP giving me something to show them as to how the SP would go. Would an Outline or Treatment suffice. I do have an attorney, whom I would be using for the submissions. Thanks Christine Valada
# 155711/4/01Do I need to get my ideas for several sitcoms copyrighted or can I summit my premises to an agent and he then get it copyrighted for me. If I need to get them copyrighted myself, how would I go about doing it. Christine Valada
# 155511/4/01how much money do I need to start a dating service online? Christine Valada
# 154911/1/01My question is as follows: How do I go about getting my screenplay registered and copy righted. And would I need to before obtaining a agent. Or will the agent do so for me. Christine Valada
# 154711/1/01A partner and I are in the process of putting together a development team for an animated series. While meeting with writers and artists, is it in terribly poor taste to ask each person to sign a confidentiality agreement barring them from discussing our project? Does it send an immediate sign of distrust? I am not paranoid. I am just trying to make sure I have all bases covered. Christine Valada
# 152510/24/01What action should be taken, if a producer refuses to return a screenplay (SASE submitted), acknowledge its receipt, or follow up on the submission requested without a submission agreement? Christine Valada
# 152310/24/01I have an idea for a script but do not have the time to write it. Are there groups that can help me put my ideas to print? Christine Valada
# 151910/23/01hello christine , what does world wide rights really mean ? how does any one get the world wide rights ? thanks for taking time , warm regards , Tom Christine Valada
# 151810/23/01Christine, I am a beginner in screenwritng . I am writng my second screenplay but I have found that there is already a film made by the title (the one which I have opted for my screenplay) . The film was made in 1985 . Do you think I will be getting rights or I should try for some other title . thanks for taking time, Gururaj Christine Valada
# 151510/22/01I registered a Treatment with the WGA last year on June 2000. The title was named "The One". Subsequent to the registration I sent this to many production companies. I recently have seen ads for a new movie that is coming out on November 2. This movie is also called, "The One". Do I have sole propietory rights to this title? And can I file for possible copyright infringement? Christine Valada
# 150410/15/01I had the question about the deceased rock musician. Your answer was very insightful. Another related question I have is about music rights. There are numerous instances of his music played either live or as background throughout the play. Should I write in the song titles and let the potential buyer worry about the rights? Or should I leave the song titles out all together? Thanks for your advice. Christine Valada
# 150310/14/01I am Currently working on the business plan for a project that once finished will be pitched to various sources of financing. These will of course include everything from deep-pocketed individuals to production companies and studios. How should I protect my project in terms of giving the business plan and/or script out to these people? Thank you very much for any help. Christine Valada
# 149910/13/01I registered an earlier draft of my screenplay some months ago. The screenplay has gone through two rewrites since then, and has changed a lot. Do you think I will need to register it again, since there have been significant changes? If I need to prove the ownership of my screenplay in court, will I be succesfull if I present the registration of this early draft? Christine Valada
# 149310/11/01I have an opportunity to submit my script to a NYC production company, but was told I must have a laywer submit it for me for legal reasons. I have a laywer who is happy to help out, but is there anything in particular she needs to write to make sure the script is 'acceptable' by the company? Christine Valada
# 149010/10/01Hello. I'm writing a screenplay about a rock musician who died decades ago. I'm not basing the story on one book, but several. Should I write the play and worry about rights later, or is there another way? Who do I obtain the rights from? Is it expensive? Thanks for your advice. Christine Valada
# 147410/2/01Hi there, Im an Australian who is a first timer. I have recieved a request from a NY Production company asking to view my script. My question is two fold,firstly Australia has automatic copyright which is recognised in the US, Do I still have to register the copyright in the US? and should this company have sent me a release form with their request? Thanks for taking the time, it is greatly appreicated. Christine Valada
# 14549/26/01Hello, Christine. A followup please to my earlier question about retaining rights to a screenplay after selling the short story version to a magazine. Original contract read "purchasing all rights" but now reads: “publisher is purchasing publication rights to the short story, and the writer retains dramatic rights for creative works (including novelization and screenplay)" I’m gonna ask my attorney, but wanted your two cents as well. Thank you! Christine Valada
# 14529/24/01A legit NY publisher made an offer for my short story. The purchase contract says publisher is acquiring "all rights, title, and interest (including copyright) of every kind whatsoever to my contribution" They say this is standard, simple and routine and used thousands of times. I have a screenplay version of the short story, that I want to retain rights to, so I'm unsure what to do. Can you suggest anything? Thanks so much Christine Valada
# 14279/9/01Dear Ms. Valada, I was asked by an agency to submit log lines about my television shows. They never got back to me. However, several of their clients have television shows based upon my log lines. Is it correct for me to assume that when an agency asks for a log line. They are looking for new ideas for their clients to develop? Mimi Longuemare Christine Valada
# 14129/4/01I would like to know how I can get an agent. I have tried numerous times to send a query letter but have not been able to even get a bite. I've approached the issue in numerous manners, What should I do? Christine Valada
# 14059/4/01Hi Christine, I'm not sure if this is your field but can you tell me the chain of command in a FBI investigation team working on a serial killer case? Thanx Christine Valada
# 13988/30/01I have an idea for a documentary. How do I protect this idea when shopping it around? Much of this project would contain interviews and prior existing footage. Is there a format for conceptualizing this type of feature? Christine Valada
# 13908/26/01Dear Christine, I'm currently thinking of writing a karaoke scene into a script. The actor of course will be singing a song done by another person. If I have a specific song picked out to be performed, must I get permission from the original artist or their estate? Christine Valada
# 13868/23/01I am a published writer and decided to write a sit-com spec based on my day-job. A co-worker wanted to co-write after I had begun. She sent emails of experiences in rough form. I did all writing, editing, changes, purchased, converted into Final Draft. Script about 70% mine. (1) Am I Author and Creator? (2) What is she? (3)Would 60-40 split with 10% off the top for my marketing when sold be fair? Christine Valada
# 13718/13/01DEAR CHRISTINE, Hi Chris. Today's question deals on the I word. Infringement. I completed a 120 pg spec script. My friend read it and said it was good but she said that I might be sued because of the title. Could I be sued because of: Bonnie & Klyde (A Brooklyn Tale). The title has nothing to do with bank robbers. Is this going to put me in the slammer? Thanks Christine Valada
# 13487/31/01How do I obtain the rights to a novel that I want adapt for a movie? Christine Valada
# 13277/21/01I'm in the process of possibly signing with a manager, and I'm STILL confused on the function of a manager. What should be their main responsibilities? I've been told that managers CANNOT submit material for you anywhere. If that's true, and all you have is a manager, HOW do you submit your scripts to places that do not accept unsolicited material? What's the purpose of a manager if they can't do that? Christine Valada
# 12907/14/01I am having trouble finding representation for my screenplay. Do I need to be registered with the sreenwriters guild in order for an agent to represent me? Christine Valada
# 12547/5/01Hi Christine, My question is i am writing a screenplay which contains a popular trademark product, the product is entirely crucial to the screenplay i am very new to screenwriting, but i do see a lot of trademark used as cruial basis for movies, or that contain them. what are the legal aspects in this situation? Christine Valada
# 12527/4/01Hi, How long after a film has been released does it take for the screenwriter to receive their agreed percentage of net profits?.. assuming the movie has a successful first few weeks. Also, if a film goes straight to video, are these distribution rights sold for a flat sum or does the profit on the video release grow depending on how many copies are made and how many rented? Thanks for your time! Christine Valada
# 12467/1/01Hello Mrs. Valada,I am an aspiring writer and I have an idea that I would like to eventually pitch towards a few stuidos.The thing is that,this concept uses a licence that has already been invented.What steps should I got through to make sure I don't cause any problems with the owner of the licence? Christine Valada
# 12426/28/01When reading the Copyright page of a book I see references to the publication being Copyrighted in several different years. (i.e. Copywrite 1945, 1944, 1943, etc.) Would this mean that an early publication of the book may have an expired copywrite while a later one may still be copyrighted? Christine Valada
# 12416/28/01How does an agent protect themselves when receiving material? Christine Valada
# 12406/28/01What are the rules regarding soliciting material to agents? Christine Valada
# 12366/27/01Christine, If a production company wants to read my screenplay, and I attach two loglinges - one for the sequel and trilogy of the same film - will tey be able to steal my ideas? I only have the first screenplay protected. Patrick Christine Valada
# 12336/26/01 Dear Christine, I am trying to be authentic in my screenplay but come from Great Britain. Could you please tell me how many contract killings occur in Great Britain? How much are these people paid? Lastly, would women be perpetrators of this kind of crime? This would help me a lot. Thanking you in advance of your assistance. Lisa. Christine Valada
# 12276/25/01In answer #765 you state "...if an agent in Hollywood hasn't gotten you work for a period of...6 months, you can fire the agent." I believe this is in a WGA contract but does this include a non-WGA contract w/o that language? And when you say "work," does this mean it only applies to a services and not a materials contract (if the agent hasn’t sold the material)? Finally, is this just California? Thanks! Christine Valada
# 12226/23/01Congratulations to your husband on his feature sale and thank you again for your intelligent and thorough answers to my questions. Your answers in this forum and Brooke A. Wharton's book on entertainment law are two indespensible resources for the aspiring screenwriter. Christine Valada
# 12216/23/01What would be a reasonable amount to pay an entertainment attorney to review a short (for example, 2 page) contract? What about to help draft an addendum to the contract and/or make a few changes (or would this normally be included)? Thank you very much. Christine Valada
# 12206/23/01Thank you for answer #1218. So ideally, if I am a new screenwriter (with a spec) signing with an agent, I should have both a materials and a services contract? My sense is that it is often very difficult to sell even a great spec (and usually they are considered "show" scripts) and that most writers, new and experienced, make most of their money doing rewrites, polishes and various other types of "services." Thanks again. Christine Valada
# 12186/22/01I am interested in learning more about the types of contracts between an agent and a screenwriter client. Can you describe the difference between a materials contract and services contract? Thank you. Christine Valada
# 12076/19/01If a character in my script is based on a real life person, is the real person entitled to any compensation? If so, how much of the real person must be reflected in my character to be considered compensable? Christine Valada
# 12016/17/01The free option agreement I am about to sign says that the amount agreed for the sale of the script is payable on commencement of principal photography. Is this a common arrangement. I would have thought it should be paid upon the exercising of the option. Otherwise I might be waiting forever! Comments greatly appreciated. Christine Valada
# 11906/13/01I have found myself with a peach of a story- teens, murder, organized crime, etc. The problem? It's true. It took place in the sixties in a small town. A few books were written about it- nothing recent Many of the players are deceased. How closely can I stick to the story? Do people have to give their permission to be portrayed? Christine Valada
# 11896/13/01well i was just wondering how does your tv blur out nudity and things on your television? Christine Valada
# 11836/11/01Hello, I've seen several times on this web site that "lawyers are not allowed to solicit work for their clients," or words to that effect. If a producer is interested in my query letter and I have an attorney send the script to them, is that OK and legal? What exactly is meant by lawyers not allowed to solicit work. It sounds like they ARE soliciting work (my writing work). Thanks so much Christine Valada
# 11776/10/01A while ago, I registered a 10-page treatment with the WGA. Once the script was completed, I was told to register the entire script, which I did. And now I have changed the title while keeping the screenplay the same. Do I need to register this a third time? If so, why? I thank you for your time. Much appreciated. Christine Valada
# 11726/8/01Can you please comment on when and WHY I should join the WGA? I've sold a first screenplay recently, and because of this sale, my other scripts are receiving attention and offers already. My attorney is handling the negotiations and we are both making money. I would like your legal, objective point of view about joining WGA instead of their biased take on it: "You need us...period" Christine Valada
# 11676/6/01Is there a "standard" letter an attorney uses when submitting material to someone you don't know? (as opposed to submitting it to a contact you've already met). I am going to start querying production companies and actors through my lawyer because I've heard for the last 800 years that all submissions must come through and agent or attorney. My lawyer and I are trying to come up with the wording of the letter. Christine Valada
# 11646/6/01I'm not naive. For years I've known that once my first script sells, the producers/directors will alter it and possibly hire new writers to totally change everything. But now I've really optioned a script, and suddenly my pride is not wanting them to change a thing. In future deals, can I solidify my own involvement with the re-writes in the option-contract?? Can I guaranty a "written by" credit, instead of