Hello! I am Shraddha and I live in India. I am an actor turned Psychologist turned writer. I recently got an offer from a production company based in the US to develop a concept for a feature film which does require a considerable amount of research. I would like some help in understanding the trends in the US regarding the Fee structure for something like this.
Screenwriting : Quoting a fee by Shraddha Shrivastava
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Hi Shraddha,
As I don't know the project, your capabilities and whether you have written screenplays prior to this (?), my advice is caution. Too many writers are duped into promises,, spending a year of their life planning and writing a script, only for nothing to happen. I think there is more research for you to do about the company - does it exist? Has it produced things? When? are they IMDb features? More telling, why you? Bob
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Hi Bob,
Thank you for your response
so I have assisted on three projects as a screenwriter and story developer. So I was introduced to the producer via my lawyer who works in the industry. I have looked them up on IMDB and they do check out. the project is a period drama and I would be working mostly at the concept level.
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Hey Shraddha - I reiterate: do nothing until you have a signed contract. I've stage play and IMDb credits (for short films) but a signed contract and stipulation for the work you'll do and the payment you can expect has to be agreed upon - and that by a signed contract..
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I do have the terms ready for the contract, the only difficulty I have is understanding the industry trends regarding fee. I have been asked for a quote
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Hey @Shraddha! I'm sure they're not trying to pay full WGA fees, but you can see what the current rates are with the WGA at the link below (use the 2020 ones and then go to the section based on what format and length you're writing). This is, at the very least a good place to start https://www.wga.org/contracts/contracts/schedule-of-minimums
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Emily J Thank you so much. This is super helpful. ( I do apologise for the immense delay in response)
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@Dan Thank you for your honesty... I do wish I had seen your message 10 months ago!
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I've written a guide which might help with this. A Screenwriter's Basic Guide to Analysing Early Offers.
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If you've never sold a screenplay and are an unknown writer, there is no set fee. Just make a number up that you're comfortable with. Or, spice it up a little bit. How about $500 + Premium Membership at Costco.
Seriously, if they are asking you to make the first move, they are probably not going to pay anything anyhow.
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Hahaha.. Thank you Stephen...