Screenwriting : Question by Ruslan Malakhov

Ruslan Malakhov

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m new to the industry and had a question that’s been on my mind. If people ask to read your script, do you usually register it with the WGA first, or do something else as well? Or do most writers just send it out and not overthink it?

Just curious how others handle it.

Kya Harris

Always register your script. Always make sure that you have a title page with your name on it. Also, if someone wants to read your script, make sure he or she sign a NDA!

Ruslan Malakhov

Oh, the NDA part is new to me. Thanks, Kya — I really appreciate your input.

Mike Boas

Don’t worry about an NDA or the WGA registration. But do register it with the copyright office.

Bill Brock

ALL 8 of my feature screenplays are registered via copyright with the U. S. Library of Congress. I would never allow my work to enter the world without that ARMORED Seal of Protection. Copyright is for LIFE. WGA must be renewed every 5 years.

Ruslan Malakhov

Thanks everyone—super helpful. I’m going to register with the U.S. Copyright Office and use WGA as an additional timestamp. Appreciate the guidance!

A. S. Vieira

I always register with WGA and the Copyright office before even submitting to a contest.

E Langley

Don't waste money on WGA registration. It's not actionable, and must be renewed every five years. Copyright is actionable, one-time fee, and for virtually forever (author's life plus 70 years).

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