Hey guys,

I've gotten quite a lot of interest for a script I posted up on here in the Thriller section called 'Locked In'.

I was wondering what are the main questions you should ask a producer or director who is interested in your script?

Is there like a formula?

Thanks

Matthew  (Majorgeneral316)

What have they done?  Can you view anything that they've done?

Who is directing?  What has he/she done in the past?  Can you view anything he/she has done?

Start with those.


Phil

What Phil said...

As well as that, make sure it is clear that you are credited as the writer if the project was to go ahead. Tell them that if they don't agree to that term, the project doesn't go ahead; simple as that.

When I get offers, I like to try and get a few other things out of it, although these aren't essential. I usually ask the director for updates on the progress of the project. Your job as a writer may be over, but it's nice to know how things are going. Usually, they all SAY they'll keep me up to date, but only one of them has actually stuck to their word, so far.

As an extra thing, arrange a way that you can watch the final film. What's the point of getting something produced if you can't even see it? Usually, I ask for a pass-word protected video on Vimeo, or a DVD of the film.

Best of luck and congrats on the offers. There is a thread posted here that guides members through this sort of thing. I'll see if I can find it.

Dan

EDIT: Have a look at this thread. It should help you.

RULE #1: If they ask for any money, tell 'em to take a hike. However, if they're persistent and they really seem to want to pursue working with you (i.e, option your script, etc.), then yeah, RULE #2: find out what they've produced previously. If you like what you see, proceed...with caution. If they ask for a rewrite but aren't willing to pay you to do it, I'd advise against it. Serious producers--people who can actually get a project off the ground--shouldn't have a problem cutting you a check.

Don't let 'em take advantage of you. That's RULE #3.

Good luck with this. Let us know how things go.

And don't take those $1 options if they offer it.  Those are bullshit.


Phil

Hey guys,

Thanks for the advice. I'll keep you posted on how it goes. I'll make sure I don't get shafted! lol

Cool

Matthew

As the interest is in a feature, as opposed to a short, I'd also be inclined to ask for information regarding the budget/ funding. Shorts can be thrown together on a shoestring budget and still come out very well. Features on the other hand? Not so much.

Quoted from Toby_E Shorts can be thrown together on a shoestring budget and still come out very well. Features on the other hand? Not so much.

Too add to this thought:  For a short script, if they really have no prior work to show, it may or may not be that big a deal.  Depends on how you feel; the vibe and enthusiasm you get from the guy (edit: or girl!).

But if somebody wants to lock up your feature, it is a red flag if they have no past work to show.

If somebody is attempting a feature-length -- as their very first project -- be aware that you are dealing with someone who hasn't a clue.

Brilliant point as well, Bert.

Hey guys,

Imagine an up and coming director is looking for a writer to help him out. He can't afford an established one so he is looking for a new writer.

He approaches this young fresh writer and asks him what they'd charge for their services.

How does one calculate how much money you'd should get for writing someone a script? Taking into consideration, they've read a previous work of yours and likes your talent.

Thanks

Matthew

Quoted from Majorgeneral316 Hey guys, Imagine an up and coming director is looking for a writer to help him out. He can't afford an established one so he is looking for a new writer. He approaches this young fresh writer and asks him what they'd charge for their services. How does one calculate how much money you'd should get for writing someone a script? Taking into consideration, they've read a previous work of yours and likes your talent. Thanks Matthew

Depends on the budget.