I'm wondering if anyone as a screenwriter has gone through the getting their screenplay optioned and the process of it. How was it to option your screenplay? How long did it take for you to hear back from the producers or production company on the development of your script? What happens after the producer or production company that finally has the script developed? Did you have a manager, agent, attorney or you're representing yourself during the screenplay option period? Was the process of getting your screenplay optioned, a good experience or waste of your time in terms of helping or hurting your writing career?
Screenwriting : Screenplay Option Agreement Process by Philip M
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In terms of calling it "success"? Yes, It was a breakthrough at the time. Producers found the script online and approached me directly. We had a deal on 48 month "lease", in which time I did a re-write and came up with much better draft as previous one was underdeveloped. However, it didn't go any further than that. Deal ended and I regained full rights to the script once again...
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Yes and every option I signed went no-where, partnered with wannabe producers with $100/$200 pocket change, waste Time. Ppl love to talk the game, have so little invested$ they just move on to the next idea.
My lawyer, Ive known for 25-years, waved his fees. (But he charged me 2x on buyout scripts & assignments).
Maybe life & pay is different for union writers. I dont know. Never played the big game.
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Here's an article about options, Philip M. It's titled "The Screenwriter's Simple Guide to Screenplay Options". https://screencraft.org/blog/the-screenwriters-simple-guide-to-screenpla...
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it doesn't take long ... about 3 weeks was my experience with Saturn Films.
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Script options (in the '70's. 80's and 90's) were a great little cottage industry for a lot of us. I had about half a dozen scripts floating around for 6 months to a year @ $10- $15K. I just don't think it's that way anymore - sad.
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Let's get one thing clear, an option is not a rewrite! Everything is negotiable in this process. If you have interest in your script, make sure to negotiate yourself the first rewrite. These are all line items that you must not forget about! Keep writing!
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Niya C Sisk. Do you mean it took three weeks for Saturn Films to develop the screenplay and get in production?
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Dan Guardino. Well, that's great for your recent optioned screenplay that resulted in being filmed.
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Dan Guardino What was the one particular thing or moments that you've felt hurt your career? If you don't me asking from your last sentence.