Originally posted by
Csilenne Rodhan on 6-08-2005 10:41 AM:
Advice on bio pic scriptHi,
I am a young writer and I have a wonderful idea for a screenplay. I'd like to write a screenplay on a musician that died about 17 years ago. He made a wonderful contribution to music and I really feel obliged to write about him. However, I really need to know —- do I need to get permission from his family to write about him? Or can I just continue to write it and then pitch it later?
Please, it would be appreciated if someone would answer me. Thank you in advance!
Posted by
ScriptNurse on 6-09-2005 8:40 PM:
First, I'm not very good at legal issues. I recommend you get advice from an attorney experienced in these matters. You may be able to get an opinion through one of our contest sponsors, Dr. Melissa Caudle and her partner, Stephen Rue, an entertainment attorney. Contact them at
www.ScreenWritersRus.com and LouisianaRedCarpet.net.
That said, it seems to me that a script written about a public figure using public information would be acceptable ... sort of like the "unauthorized biography" dramas seen on TV. Of course, participation and assistance from the family of a celebrity is usually a big help, not to mention the opportunity to obtain special insight into the person you're writing about.
Posted by
Csilenne Rodhan on 6-14-2005 9:38 PM:
Thank you so much for replying. That gives me alot of encouragement. I'll get back to you if i need anything else!
Posted by
ScriptNurse on 6-18-2005 4:02 PM:
I'll be here.
