Hey all,
I was asked today to write two separate scripts on spec for two production companies. The timing was simply incredible: 5 minutes apart. There must be a cosmic conspiracy to squeeze my balls for no pay.
I am a member of the WGA, and I brought this up with both companies. The responses I got were of the hand-on-the-shoulder, "everybody does it" variety. Whereas the WGA was clearly not too impressed with the idea of my speccing for free, for a production company.
Details regarding both projects: company #1 said I would still own the script, but they would want a first look at it before I take it to other places since, obviously, it would be their concept.
company #2 said that it would not be in breach of WGA rules because I would write it for myself but "following their lead". I can understand following an exec's lead when you are being paid to do so... but doing it for free?!
I am wondering if any of you have written this sort of spec for a production company, whether you are WGA members, if that was an issue etc.
Thanks so much.
Travis Pickle
p.s. anyone want their script written for free? I will throw in a six-dollar burger as well.
I was asked today to write two separate scripts on spec for two production companies. The timing was simply incredible: 5 minutes apart. There must be a cosmic conspiracy to squeeze my balls for no pay.
I am a member of the WGA, and I brought this up with both companies. The responses I got were of the hand-on-the-shoulder, "everybody does it" variety. Whereas the WGA was clearly not too impressed with the idea of my speccing for free, for a production company.
Details regarding both projects: company #1 said I would still own the script, but they would want a first look at it before I take it to other places since, obviously, it would be their concept.
company #2 said that it would not be in breach of WGA rules because I would write it for myself but "following their lead". I can understand following an exec's lead when you are being paid to do so... but doing it for free?!
I am wondering if any of you have written this sort of spec for a production company, whether you are WGA members, if that was an issue etc.
Thanks so much.
Travis Pickle
p.s. anyone want their script written for free? I will throw in a six-dollar burger as well.
Comment