Is it worth writing a screenplay partially based on the life of a public figure, without securing any rights? Will a great screenplay send production companies scrambling to get rights, or is that something totally on the writer?
Screenwriting : Rights issue? by Brian Corey
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Hi Brian, I've often wondered that myself, as I asked the group a similar question a few week's back. My understanding is that a public figure should be in the public domain to depict if he or she has passed, but I'm not too sure. I've written a biopic (miniseries, actually) and didn't seek the life rights for my subject, as I used the project as a calling-card spec. I hope you find out!
Hi, James Welday thanks for the info. I am also using this script as sort of writing sample, though I would love to see it made someday!
I wrote it some years back, and I wish, having many years of experience under my belt, I could go and tighten the script (all 10 hours of it). If you're serious about reading it, I'd be happy to send it your way.
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Brian, I wouldn't worry much about it. A public figure lives in the public domain but keep your facts true and verifiable to avoid slander/defamation of character issues. IF your sample writing script should ever be green-lit, then the Producer will take care of any 'rights' issues.