Hey everyone! I haven't posted much here over the years, but with 2021 coming up and having grown since i first joined this site 4 years ago, I want to connect with you all!
Now, on to my story. It's a little long so bear with me..
So I have a short film script I've been working on for a while, one that I feel is one of my best ones, that I had the intention of directing and doing the festivals etc. I had submitted it to a screenplay contest, Chicago screenplay competition which is hosted by this group the screenplay awards network. Didn't think much of it and submitted and got the feedback for it, and at the end of it they wanted me to email them to discuss the script further. They loved the concept and see feature potential. So I emailed them to see what they were all about.
A few weeks ago we scheduled a call with their head of development to chat. From the get go my guard was up just because I know the ocean of screenplay services that try to just get your money and I wasn't familiar with them. While on the call it seemed like he was genuinely interested in my script and we chatted for about 45 minutes about the story and where things can go etc. He even recorded the Skype call so I have a file of it for myself. I straight up asked so what is your side of this kind of transaction, and he said right now I just want to help develop this with you. "My production company just made from script to completion a film of similar genre and I feel like this could easily sell and I can attach a director. But again nothing is certain obviously" I think it was called "Baby Money." And he wanted me to really just be screenwriter/producer since I haven't directed a feature yet, as it goes. Which Im fine with because this could possibly be a good jumpstart, but again it's early.
If you're still with me, I appreciate it lol So my question really is what are things I should be aware of to protect myself? What questions should I ask him? I'm new to the business side of this so I'm cautious. My short script is registered with the WGA east and Im about to file it with the Us copyright office. Any thoughts and suggestions are appreciated!
NOTE: I'm aware I should contact an entertainment lawyer at some point. It's the only response that any redditor in /r/screenwriting had to say. Right now there has been no talk of contracts or anything. I haven't touched base with the guy yet to 100% confirm I'm in. I would just like to hear if anyone has had similar experiences and what I should know going into it.
Thanks for listening!
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Hey Nick! Thanks for the response. Yea I guess I need to keep reminding myself until contracts and such are out there, it’s still mine. And lower the defenses a little. Style wise they seem to be of similar interest to mine. And our conversation was good and kept wanting to see where the story would go (meanwhile I haven’t even outlined a feature version yet haha) but the interest did seem genuine.
Thanks Barry! Fingers crossed
An email with bullet points that detail the relationship and expectations and ownership, with Replies of "Yes" or "I agree" is a good, simple start. Once any type of money starts being talked about - pay, percentages, etc. - then a contract is needed (with attorney review).