Monthly Archives: November 2009

Q:  I'm writing a modern  spec screenplay based on a true story I discovered through Internet research, and based on interviews with two participants int eh events depicted in the story.     The interviewees both eagerly agreed to participate, and have not asked for anything in exchange. However, it's been emphatically recommended to me that I seek their “life rights”.   Since my economy probably won't allow me to purchase those rights prior to selling the script, what other alternative is there that serves the interests of both parties? Naturally, I'm willing to share a slice of my pie if I make a sale. I'm also willing to sign that I will not use or publish this script in any medium if it is not sold. What do you recommend I do?

A:  The advice you've received is good, so far as it goes.  You SHOULD obtain a written contract from the interviewees, which grants you the right to write, develop and exploit your screenplay based in part upon events of their lives.   If you're planning to use their real names, etc., the agreement should also grant you those rights.     This is usually called a “life-rights” contract.  Continue Reading