Acquiring Screenplay Rights

The contract drawn between a writer and a producer over extent of copyright being handed over.

A filmmaker's exclusive right to buy the screenplay during the option period.

When a filmmaker decides to purchase the screenplay during the option period.

An option whose purchasing price was not negotiated at the time the option price was negotiated.

• -To shop the script around before exercising option
• -Get longest option period possible
• -Get lowest option price possible
• -Make option price applicable to purchase price

• Prefers to sell outright (but knows not usually possible)
• Wants movie made so they can demand higher price for next writing assignment.

The exclusive right for the producer to purchase the screenplay during the option period.

• Low end $50
• High end 10% of purchase price
• Will the option price be applicable or nonapplicable to purchase amount?

• Usually at least one year
• Extension payment offered

When a producer can renew the option.

• Send snail mail notice of plans to exercise option to writer.
• Writer needs to sign purchase agreement.
• Writer also needs to sign over copyrights and other rights to producer.