Screenwriter Agreements: What is the Screenplay Writers Agreement?

As a screenwriter, you’re always looking for an opportunity to sell your screenplay. When working with a production company that is willing to pay for your work. You’re probably going to be asked to sign a screenplay writers agreement.

But what does this mean for you, and what does it mean for the production company that you’re working with?

What is a Screenplay Writer’s Agreement?

A screenplay writer’s agreement represents a unique agreement made between a production company and a screenwriter. In which the production company or studio commissions the writer to create a film screenplay.

Under the screenplay writer’s agreement, there is usually a requirement that the writer will create successive drafts of a film screenplay. And in return they will be provided with set payments for their work.

The agreement might even include details on profit sharing in the event that the film is a success.

Individual Services

Screenplay writer’s agreements are essentially an employment contract or agreement between a screenwriter and a production company. In fact, from a legal perspective, it’s the same as a labor agreement.

As such, the screenplay writer’s agreement will specify the individual services to be performed by the writer. As well as the payment to be provided as well as how payments are scheduled. And details on screen credits as well as timelines for completion of services.

Regulated Terms Under the WGA

As a writer and member of the Writer’s Guild of America, the terms of a screenplay writer’s agreement are regulated.

This means the terms of the agreement will align with the previously set terms established between the signatory company and the WGA.

Under these terms

Your writer’s agreement might require a minimum payment. Or a particular screen credit. Or some other minimum basic agreement that was already established by the WGA with the production studio, network, or company that you’ll be entering into the agreement with.

What’s Included in a Screenplay Writer’s Agreement?

The screenplay writer’s agreement is going to include details about the production company and the writer that are entering into the agreement together.

It will most likely appear similar to an employment contract. Including the names of all parties involved, contact details, and a list of the expected terms of the agreement. Details as to the type of work to be provided, at which interval, and which timeframe will also be included.

Additionally, the Screenplay Writer’s Agreement will include details on payments, scheduled payout dates, payment or coverage of remaining fees. And details as to any credits which might be provided for the writer when the film is produced.

Like any other contract, it’s important that the Screenplay Writer’s Agreement is full, detailed. And includes a signature from both the writer and the production company prior to any work being started.