Posted by lawboard on June 26, 1999 at 14:25:38:
In Reply to: RIGHTS FOR ADAPTATION posted by matthew david frango on June 17, 1999 at 21:34:07:
Well, there is no set rule on this...though know that by adapting the material without permission you are technically infringing the author's copyright...though whether he will do anything is another question. Any production company may or may not take care of this for you...though it will certainly not be a plus in your favor in trying to sell your project. What happens if you actually SELL the script and then the author refuses to grant you permission?
: Dear lawgirl:
Attorneys such as you are so difficult to find!
I am a screenplay writer and I am almost finished
with a feature film based on a novel written in the
1960's. The author is not American and he may well be
deceased. I know that I can copywright a adaptation,but
is it my responsibility to secure the rights to the
novel before I send it out or should I not worry about
this and if the screenplay is purchased, will the agency
and/or production company do all the securing of rights
necessary ?