Screenwriting : The First Draft by DMaria Woods

DMaria Woods

The First Draft

Well, I finally have a completed script and I'm anxious to start the rewrite. I wonder if I should register the first draft or wait for the rewrite.

Asha Doucet

I will be in that stage soon. 90 pages in to what should be a 120-page script give or take a few. I planned on a final edit, letting a different set of trusted eyes read it, then a revision, putting it down for a week, then another revision before trying to get it looked at professionally. However, I am new to this. How does the process of script registration work?

Anthony Moore

That depends. Once registered, a draft cannot be changed. Legally you are covered if there are minor changes such as spelling or error corrections in a later draft. However, you are not covered if there are major changes in a later draft or revision, such as adding/deleting characters, reordering scenes, revising the story structure. In such a case, a new registration is needed. How sure are you about the current draft?

Danny Manus

Anthony that is not true at all. Register it now even if there are changes. unless they are drastic changes to the entire story and characters, youll be covered. yes, if it changes 60% then you may need to reregister it. But protect yourself now.

Anthony Moore

When Should I Re-Register a Revised Screenplay?

https://zernerlaw.wordpress.com/2011/12/30/198/

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How much do I have to change in my own work to make a new claim of copyright?

You may make a new claim in your work if the changes are substantial and creative, something more than just editorial changes or minor changes. This would qualify as a new derivative work. For instance, simply making spelling corrections throughout a work does not warrant a new registration, but adding an additional chapter would. See Circular 14, Copyright Registration in Derivative Works and Compilations, for further information.

https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-register.html

Beth Fox Heisinger

Yes, I second Danny: that's not true. However... by registering with the Library of Congress you are making a claim of copyright; claiming an "official" date of a fixed work being in your possession. Registering itself does not give you "copyright." You already have copyright protection as the original creator/writer. What registering gives you is a stronger legal standing in a court of law should the need occur—which rarely happens. So don't sweat this stuff. Seriously. Minor tweaks are not substantial and would be perfectly fine under registration. But do whatever makes you comfortable.

Oh, and Anthony, the Wordpress link you posted above is only the personal opinion of one lawyer. 20-30% of changes warrants a re-register?!—that's rather paranoid. Perhaps confirm with other lawyers if unsure. Mine would laugh at that. It's rather up to your own judgment, your call. Plus consider when you re-register an already registered work you have to be more specific, describe the changes.

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