Universal writers program

[Merrick]

Go at it but be quick. Submission deadline is October 1st.

https://www.universaltalentdevelopment.com/writers

[Bono]

Or we can walk down the hill and apply to all the programs...

[Friday]

I wouldn't be ready in time. But, just as a question, do your scripts end up being Universal optioned for several years? I heard some interview and the director had mentioned that you get a salary, but your scripts would be optioned by Universal and if you want them back, you have an option of buying it back? I can't find that interview now, but I would have liked a clarification on that...the moderator didn't really follow up with her.

[Merrick]

There is a legal release form on the site you can find under the applications.

I can't apply for multiple reasons. The biggest of which is my one script is over 120 pages. But also, I'm not really keen to leave my job and family for a year out of country on a mentorship program. Maybe if it was working on a project I developed. Even though this would be a step up in writing for me, it would be a step down in life.

But this program is great for those that are US-based and looking to break in.

[lostfootage]

Originally Posted by Friday

I wouldn't be ready in time. But, just as a question, do your scripts end up being Universal optioned for several years? I heard some interview and the director had mentioned that you get a salary, but your scripts would be optioned by Universal and if you want them back, you have an option of buying it back? I can't find that interview now, but I would have liked a clarification on that...the moderator didn't really follow up with her.

In their FAQ:

"Additionally, should a writer’s material be identified as potential development content, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG) has the option to extend the writer’s contract for a term of up to one additional year."

They pay you $75k for the year, you're expected to write two features, and if those projects are deemed viable, they can extend an option on one or both for either feature. Also, this, on previously written work:

"Any material written or co-written by the applicant prior to the term of the Program and owned or controlled by the applicant must be disclosed in writing, and UFEG shall have an “Exclusive First Look” right as to such material."

Wow. That's pretty strong. Also, if you've written with a writing partner before:

"Writers selected to participate in the Program will be required to obtain a signed release form from all co-writers of any pre-existing, co-written material as a condition of their employment."

So, basically for $75k, Universal gets all of your work for an entire year, plus an exclusive right to all of your previous work prior to applying. Plus the right to extend options for a year, etc. So if you really want to get deep into Universal, this is a good program.

Most applicants won't have the level of writing Universal would want, so it's probably not a big deal. But still this program sounds best for someone younger who doesn't have a bunch of irons already in the fire.

[Bono]

Originally Posted by Merrick

There is a legal release form on the site you can find under the applications.

I can't apply for multiple reasons. The biggest of which is my one script is over 120 pages. But also, I'm not really keen to leave my job and family for a year out of country on a mentorship program. Maybe if it was working on a project I developed. Even though this would be a step up in writing for me, it would be a step down in life.

But this program is great for those that are US-based and looking to break in.

See we didn't make it up! Gentle busting balls.

[finalact4]

Originally Posted by lostfootage

In their FAQ:

"Additionally, should a writer’s material be identified as potential development content, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG) has the option to extend the writer’s contract for a term of up to one additional year."

They pay you $75k for the year, you're expected to write two features, and if those projects are deemed viable, they can extend an option on one or both for either feature. Also, this, on previously written work:

"Any material written or co-written by the applicant prior to the term of the Program and owned or controlled by the applicant must be disclosed in writing, and UFEG shall have an “Exclusive First Look” right as to such material."

Wow. That's pretty strong. Also, if you've written with a writing partner before:

"Writers selected to participate in the Program will be required to obtain a signed release form from all co-writers of any pre-existing, co-written material as a condition of their employment."

So, basically for $75k, Universal gets all of your work for an entire year, plus an exclusive right to all of your previous work prior to applying. Plus the right to extend options for a year, etc. So if you really want to get deep into Universal, this is a good program.

Most applicants won't have the level of writing Universal would want, so it's probably not a big deal. But still this program sounds best for someone younger who doesn't have a bunch of irons already in the fire.

it also states clearly that this is an exclusive arrangement which means you cannot develop anything outside of the spec you write for them. so, no writing for 40 hours for universal and writing your own pilot to send out on your "other" time. that's a lot to ask for $75,000. which isn't a lot for LA.

btw, anyone know if they still ask for exclusivity when you're staffed on a show? somehow i thought that was going away? misinformed?

[Merrick]

Originally Posted by Bono

See we didn't make it up! Gentle busting balls.

I know you didn't make it up. I already knew the limits before writing. I'm okay with breaking limits is all.

[Bono]

Also no senior citizens! I’m out.

[Bono]

Originally Posted by Merrick

I know you didn't make it up. I already knew the limits before writing. I'm okay with breaking limits is all.

I know. Maverick Merrick. I get it.