To Collaborate or Not

I’m getting stoked about the possible “collaberation”.  After several e-mails with the producer/director, I have a good idea of what he wants to create.  I’m actually going to go to the library today and start research.

But, because I’ve never gone through anything like this, I still have questions that make me hesitant.  So I’ve asked the questions and we’ll see…

If you are embarking on this type of project, don’t be afraid to ask questions.   Satisfy yourself before you immerse yourself…

What is expected of you, the writer?   Will you own the script when it is written?  How will you be compensated for its use?   How will  disagreement’s during the script’s creation be resolved?    What if a member of the “collaboration team” can’t perform?  What happens if YOU can’t perform (family illness or something like that)?  What kind of experience do other members of the team have?

One part of me wants to  jump into this project feet first!    On the surface it’s a great opportunity.  But screenwriters know that  every screenplay we write takes part of our life, bits of our soul, so I’m being hesitant.  Perhaps it’s self-protection.  Perhaps it’s dumb.  Perhaps it’s really wise.

It’s another step on my “screenwriter’s journey”.


One Response to “To Collaborate or Not”

  1. Damn the Torpedos Faith and Full Speed Ahead. I have had nothing
    but luck (as a filmmaker & co-writer) when doing online collaborations with writers.

    Make sure there is some common bond and understanding between you and the filmmaker. Loves of certain films, philosophy of filmmaking, favorite actors etc.

    If you see ANY red flags at the very beginning of the potential collaboration, follow your heart and back out asap before the heart of the work begins!

    Happy Collaborating!
    -Tommy Merry

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