Screenwriting : Terminology and transparency by Wendy Jones

How about "based on"?

My initial thought was to only use the comparison in a pitching situation such as Jaws in space (Alien) or, Hamlet but with lions (The Lion King).... maybe your story can be pitched in a similar fashion?

I’d go with “inspired by” not “reimagining.” Or refer to nothing extra on the title page. Maybe that “inspired by” aspect is best given in a pitch or in a one-pager, or in other supporting materials, etc. By industry terms and labeling, a “reimagining” is a type of remake with a fancy new hat—something’s been added, like new animation technology or live action. Disney is doing a lot of remakes as “reimaginings” of their classic properties. That’s not what you are doing with a spec script. Just make sure whatever it is you are writing has its own unique take. ;)

It was written over a hundred years ago.

Classics generally are ok to use. Titanic is basically Romeo and Juliet re-imagined. I wouldn't worry about it. If your asked to pitch you can use a comparison and I personally like the term re-imaged. Until then it's not really important.

You’re probably fine, then. But should double check. Make sure it is in the public domain. It could be owned by an estate, family perhaps? ;) Good luck and best to you!

Beth, is right There's also two different things you have to look at. One is of course copyright but there's something else and I just can't recall what it is. I was looking at it the other day but It just escapes me at the moment. Free use or something.

Ah no sorry I am thinking about photos not books, I think!

Thanks, Karen Stark . It is in the public domain, so hopefully it is just something I can use in a pitch.

Now I just have to think up a title.

If it is in the public domain, then, yes, it is free to use. However, let’s say some other version is out there, then just make sure you are using the original source material, what’s in the public domain. Not some element from someone else’s interpretation or adaptation, nor use any of their additions that are unique to their project. That specific version would be under its own copyright protections, even if it too is based off of the same work from the public domain.

Can you use the original title or were you thinking of some more modern version?

Beth Fox Heisinger I read the book to start with. Same one I studied at school! Much easier reading than I remember.

Bill Albert It is an old book with an old title, so I was trying to think of something more fitting.

The Lion King is Hamlet

You’re fine. Let it stand on its own two feet.

I agree with Craig. Every story has connections to predecessors. Just let your tale be itself.

Thanks guys.

Nick Assunto - Stage32 Script Services Good point.