Arts >> Movies & TV >> Screen Writing

How to Protect Your Screenplay or Movie Idea

Don't go to a movie theater, look up at the screen and say, "that's my idea!" Protecting your work is one of the most important things you must do. It should be the first thing you do after your type "The End." While screenplay theft isn't common, it can happen, especially if a perpetrator believes he can get away with it. Registering your screenplay is the movie industry accepted way to protect your project.

Things You'll Need

  • Web-access
  • Proper development of your material
  • Copy of your material in electronic form (PDF files are preferred)
Show More

Instructions

  1. Online

    • 1

      Visit the Writers Guild of America website. Click the link that says "Register Your Script." A page will open that gives you the option to register online or register by mail. Click "register online".

    • 2

      Select the type of material you are submitting, such as: screenplay, concept, story. Enter the medium your screenplay or idea is intended for, such as: screen, TV, stage or interactive. Type the title of your screenplay or idea in the open field.

    • 3

      Enter your personal and contact information. This includes: Social Security number or driver's license number, full legal name, address and email.

    • 4

      Confirm whether you are the author of the material or if you are registering for another person. Also indicate how many authors there are. If you are not the author, or if there is more than one author, enter the name (s) of the author.

    • 5

      Enter your payment information by credit card. As of 2011, the registration cost is $20.00 for non-guild members.

    • 6

      Upload your screenplay or material as a digital file to complete the registration process. You will be given a script registration number, and within two to four weeks a registration certificate will arrive at your address confirming your registration.

    Mail

    • 7

      Print out your screenplay, or idea, on 8-1/2 x 11 unbound, white paper.

    • 8

      Include a cover sheet with the full legal names of all authors of the material. This can be separate from the actual title page of the screenplay, where you can use pseudonyms if you choose. Include your Social Security or driver's license number, return address, phone number and email address.

    • 9

      Write a check for the amount of the registration fee. As of 2011, the registration cost is $20.00 for non-guild members.

Screen Writing

Related Categories