Like a lot of scriptwriters on here, I am a proud member of Script Revolution. I love the website, it helps to bring notice to your written works. I got over 100 downloads last year (I record every download in a notebook). Anyway, though I love the attention, something flagged me as I looked over my downloads. I have multiple users downloading scripts multiple times. At first, this doesn't seem strange but these downloads occur on my "paid" scripts, meaning they have to pay me to use this script. I haven't gotten so much as an email from these users downloading my screenplay multiple times. According to Script Revolution's notification emails, it forbids writers from contacting those who download your script to prevent harassment. The punishment is eternal banishment from the site. But what about me? Am I to simply allow users to download my screenplay multiple times without asking them what are they doing? What if they are stealing my work despite my direct instruction to ask permission (and payment) before using my screenplay for production. Even if the user were using it for school project, I would still like to be contacted. Am I being paranoid?
Screenwriting : Multiple screenplay downloads on Script Revolution, no emails by Nikki April Lee
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Hi, Nikki. Wow, that's a lot of downloads! Which is great! However, most, if not all, are just interested people downloading your script to read. Multiple downloads are pretty common. And not being contacted just means the material may not have been a fit for that person or that person was just curious about you and your work and wanted to read a writing sample. If I recall, CJ is crystal clear and adamant about viewers and readers contacting writers directly should someone be interested in taking it further: securing an option, getting permission, purchasing, etc. And, yes, even if a film student would like to use a script of yours for educational purposes she/he must get your permission in order to do so first—absolutely. Copyright is well known and understood, certainly by those in the industry, so "stealing" is very rare and rather pointless. Most have their own ideas and projects, and it's far cheaper (and easier) to just buy a script then risk some lawsuit. Plus, why "steal" and ruin your professional reputation as well? Anyway, feel great that so many people wish to read your work! And I wouldn't worry so much. Putting yourself and your work out there is a good thing. Sure, there are some risks, but those risks are statistically very rare. Hope that helps and best to you!
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Just seconding Beth’s comments. I have nothing to add!
Nikki April Lee what’s the difference between a “free” and “paid” script to read?
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Beth Fox Heisinger Well, that does put my mind at ease. I just figured if they are downloading the script multiple times on different days then they have to be finding it interesting enough or else what's the point of the redownloads? I just thought I'd reach out before I make a fool of myself writing to CJ. Thanks!
You're welcome, Nikki! I'm glad that put your mind at ease. Myself, I download things multiple times. I will, if say, I forgot I already had or maybe I didn't "save as pdf." Or I'm reading something and forgot to transfer it to another device, so I'll download it again. Or I'll be working on something and think, oh, this reminds me of something I saw a while back, and I'll go hunting for it to double check... Ugh, with my chaotic life, I download stuff multiple times quite often. Lol! I would imagine the same for others. Nonetheless, do reach out to CJ. I'm sure he would wish to help, perhaps take a look at that activity for you, and ease your mind as well. ;) Anyway, I'm happy to be of service. And best to you!
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Dan MaxXx Free is the work you are releasing to the public domain. I have a few single actor scripts that people can use as audition pieces if they wish.
Nikki I normally thank people for the download. That opens the lines of communication.
Well I just put a script up so this will be interesting.