How Can Screenwriters Ensure Their Work is Protected from Plagiarism?

As a screenwriter, protecting your work from plagiarism is paramount. Once you complete a piece of writing, it is automatically copyrighted, whether or not you register it. However, taking proactive steps can significantly enhance your protection. This article outlines effective strategies and important considerations in safeguarding your screenplay.

A Multi-Stage Editing Process

One robust method screenwriters use is implementing a multi-staged editing process. Contrary to popular belief, it's rarely the work of a single individual anymore. A script is typically reviewed and refined by numerous individuals, including directors, editors, and other key creatives. For instance, if a script submitted to Universal Studios for a version of 'The Little Mermaid' includes the song 'Poor Unfortunate Souls' from the Disney original, it would likely be caught.

While writers often don't start from scratch, they are given assignments based on specific storylines. Studios usually run these story ideas through Legal to determine their viability. Possible outputs include stories that are entirely original, limited adaptations like 'Little Mermaid,' or remakes like 'Hamlet.' With each stage in the process, the team works to ensure the final product is distinct from existing or similar works.

Registering with the WGA

A highly recommended practice is to register your screenplay with the Writers Guild of America (WGA). This serves not just as a legal protection but as a formal record of your work. Researchers or individuals looking to access your copyrighted material can use this registration as a reference.

While registration is important, it's crucial to ensure that your scripts are shared only through your agent or lawyer, who have negotiated a request for the script from the production studio. Studios typically do not accept unsolicited screenplays to avoid the risk of potential copyright infringement claims.

Strategies to Avoid Plagiarism

There are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of your work being plagiarized:

Register with the U.S. Copyright Office: Submit your screenplay under the Work for the Performing Arts category. Keep copies of query letters, get proof of delivery, and save the full headers of emails. A good agent can help you manage these tasks efficiently, and hiring a very experienced entertainment lawyer can be a wise investment, especially if your screenplay is particularly valuable. Understand the Market: Be aware that your unique take on a story might bear similarities to countless other scripts in the pipeline. A screenplay about a shark, for example, could be one among 15,000 other shark-themed scripts.

Mitigating Ethics Violations

While taking these steps can help, it's important to recognize that some people will always attempt to plagiarize your work due to ethical lapses. Unauthorized use is more common than you might think. The best strategy for dealing with potential plagiarism is to ensure your work is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office and, if you identify infringement, take legal action to protect your rights.

Conclusion

Proactively safeguarding your screenplay is crucial for any screenwriter. By understanding the multi-stage editing process, registering your work with the WGA, and taking steps to protect your intellectual property, you can significantly reduce the risk of plagiarism. Remember, while you can't prevent every ethical breach, being prepared and informed can make a world of difference.