What is Screenwriting Credit?

Securing Your Script: Understanding Screenwriting Credit and Protecting Your Work

Hello, my fellow scribes and screenwriters! As we venture into the labyrinth of the film industry, one term you’ll often hear is “screenwriting credit.” But what does it actually mean, and why is it so crucial for both your reputation and your wallet? Today, I’m here to unravel these mysteries and offer you guidance on navigating screenwriting credits, especially through the lens of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) rules. Plus, I’ll share some indispensable tips for indie screenwriters on securing the credit you deserve and what happens when significant rewrites threaten to erase your name from your own creation.

What is Screenwriting Credit?

In the simplest terms, screenwriting credit is the official acknowledgment given to writers who have contributed to the script of a film or television show. This credit is not just a pat on the back; it’s a critical component of a screenwriter’s career, affecting future opportunities, industry reputation, and, importantly, compensation.

Understanding WGA Rules on Screenwriting Credit

The Writers Guild of America plays a pivotal role in determining who receives screenwriting credit in projects covered under its jurisdiction. According to WGA rules:

1. The Originality Threshold: For a writer to receive credit, their contribution must be significant and original. This means bringing unique elements to the story, characters, or dialogue that are essential to the script.
2. Percentage of Change: A common myth is that there’s a specific percentage of the script that needs to change for original writers to lose credit. In reality, the WGA evaluates contributions on a case-by-case basis, considering the originality and significance of each writer’s work rather than a fixed percentage.
3. Arbitration Process: If there’s a dispute over credits, the WGA conducts an arbitration process, where anonymous writers review the various script drafts to determine credit distribution based on the guidelines set by the guild.

Tips for Indie Screenwriters to Secure Credit

1. Documentation is Key

• Why It Matters: Keeping a detailed record of your work process is crucial. This includes all drafts of your script, emails or messages related to script discussions, notes from meetings, and any changes requested or suggested by collaborators. If a dispute over credit arises, these documents serve as evidence of your contributions and the evolution of your work.
• How to Implement: Create a dedicated folder (digital or physical) for each project where you store every piece of relevant documentation. Regularly update this folder and organize it in a way that makes it easy to retrieve specific documents.

2. Contracts Upfront

• Why It Matters: A clear, written agreement is your most reliable safeguard against misunderstandings or disputes over screenwriting credit. Such a contract should outline the terms of your involvement, how credit will be determined, and the conditions under which additional writers may be brought onto the project.
• How to Implement: Before beginning any collaborative effort or optioning (selling) your script, insist on a contract. If possible, consult with an entertainment lawyer to ensure the contract protects your interests and clearly states the credit you are to receive.

3. Register Your Work

• Why It Matters: Register your script with the WGA and secure a copyright. You should do both. I can not stress this enough as these establish a legal timestamp for your work. This act doesn’t prevent others from writing similar stories but proves the originality and ownership of your specific screenplay.
• How to Implement: Utilize the WGA’s script registration service. You do not need to be a member. Copyright your script through the U.S. Copyright Office. Both steps are affordable and provide significant legal standing in protecting your work.

Navigating Rewrites and Retaining Credit

Stay Involved

• Why It Matters: Being proactive in the rewrite process can help ensure that your core contributions remain integral to the project. Staying involved allows you to adapt your work in response to feedback while maintaining its essence.
• How to Implement: Negotiate terms that allow you to contribute to or at least consult on rewrites. Maintain open communication with the production team and express your willingness to adapt your work while preserving its key elements.

Know Your Worth

• Why It Matters: Understanding the unique aspects of your script that are crucial to the story’s identity can help you advocate for their retention during rewrites. Knowing your worth also means recognizing when to compromise and when to stand firm.
• How to Implement: Identify the non-negotiable elements of your script that define its voice and heart. Prepare to discuss the importance of these elements and their contribution to the overall narrative.

Seek Mediation

• Why It Matters: If you find yourself written out of a project or disagree with the distribution of credit, seeking mediation or legal advice can help resolve disputes. This is especially important for indie screenwriters who may not have the backing of organizations like the WGA.
• How to Implement: Explore mediation services that specialize in creative disputes or consult with an entertainment lawyer. These professionals can offer guidance based on your specific situation and help negotiate a fair resolution.

By expanding on these tips, indie screenwriters can better protect their contributions and navigate the complex world of screenwriting credit with confidence. Remember, your creative voice is invaluable—defend it diligently to ensure it resonates through your work.