Working with a production company on spec?

[Geoff Alexander]

Originally Posted by gregbeal

There's another scenario (one among many variations):

Production company works with writer but finally gives up.

Writer sells the project elsewhere, and initial prod co reappears and threatens legal action if they aren't also attached to the project.

As I said, that's highly unlikely, but not impossible. The shadier the company the more likely it is, based on OP's description, the risk is probably not high. If he is really concerned about it, he can ask them for an agreement which states that any and all contributions made by them to any and all drafts developed during their discussions reverts to him should they decide not to continue with the project.

[Norm]

Mint:

I think that the most obvious next step is that you get repped asap. And it sounds like you have enough pitch material to make that happen.

You say that this Prod Co is well known. Then go to imdb and check out a couple of their most recent biggest films. Make note of the writers for each film, a few of the stars, and if the director is a big name, him or her too.

Cross reference those names, beginning with the writers. Maybe the first name is repped by UTA. Email that agent, explain the situation, emphasizing their red-hot interest in you and your script, and tell them the names of the people that you're working with at this company.

I betcha that agent signs you on the spot with all of the advice you need.

If not, move on to the next name.

[michaelb]

Lowell is right.

BDZ is right.

Mint, I take it you are developing with Atlas? Good guys over there. When the time is right, they'll get you an agent and manager.

Best,

MB