Idea/Script stealing
So.. you guys know I'm in production right now.. only about 2 weeks left before we wrap.
All of a sudden out of the blue this other film maker has popped up with a script/plot thats very similar to mine, with several plot points that are identical.
He's even using some of the same cast.
Supposedly he has a big budget, but hasn't got it finalized yet. What should I think about this?
www.exit101movie.com
exit101movie.blogspot.com
Unless you had your idea registered for copyright, I'm pretty sure you're otherwise alone there.
I'd be worried. Get yours done first, then he comes across as the "rip off"...
Ideas are thirteen a dozen. So are "plot points" - just watch some movies, and you'll notice...
Only an actual script is copyrightable, and that's automatic*, by the way. Can you prove you didn't steal anything from his script?
* Edit - I think only when it is published, though. A script in your desk drawer cannot be copyrighted. If you are "first", and want to make sure no-one sues you for plagiarism, you'd better get it notarrized or something...
Last edited by Janke; 2012 May 2nd at 09:33.
Luckily, if it ever comes down to it, you have pretty solid documentation here and on DVXuser, from the writing through production... if it ever gets ugly, or folks have questions about who was first, you can at least point to those threads.
More equipment than talent
I don't think its going to even get made. Lofty ambitions (even more so than mine) and someone who has no track record whatsoever.
www.exit101movie.com
exit101movie.blogspot.com
... and planning a big budget movie ? Hardly...Originally Posted by azmyth
Yep, none.. done some small thrown together things, but this will be the first feature as well as first "big budget" feature.... and planning a big budget movie ? Hardly...
Somehow he's amassed a crew of pro's to this area (probably with the promise of money) claims all positions are paid, but when asked about funding gives very vague answers. He's got some good people working under him, it just seems like they may have the wool pulled over their eyes. I don't know any investors who are going to invest in some no name directors first time effort?
www.exit101movie.com
exit101movie.blogspot.com
Do you mean some of YOUR CAST MEMBERS are "signed up" with or have agreed to work in his production?
Do two things immediately:
1: Send a typed copy of your script and all associated materials along with the required copyright fee according to the procedures outlined here:
http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-register.html
It doesn't look expensive and apparently you can do it online...but DO IT NOW!
2: Have a talk with your cast and crew. Remind them you have one finished and a distribution agreement and the chances are excellent this one will enjoy the same.
But tell them they cannot work on both, your version and someone else's.
There are some folks who see something like what you're doing and then create the impression of being about to do you one better with the same idea. They make their "package" look good and even go so far as to use the same names of individuals associated with your project.
It's an attention seeking thing.
But get your script, any storyboarding, and the basic idea behind your movie copyrighted NOW!
Bruce Foreman
I am a reforming videomaking addict
Yup, it's something like $35 bucks
Vice President, Team HVFF - http://hvfffollowfocus.webs.com/ HV Follow Focus
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Bruce, already in process.
Yeah, he's trying to use my crew.. some of my cast.. etc. Heck I even auditioned for it, just so I could get some inside info. I personally don't see it happening.. while our scripts and stories are very similar with several identical plot points, and even additions to the script added based on things I've posted about 7TM.
But yeah its like he's trying to one up me by taking my story and Michael Baying the crap out of it.
I don't think he'll ever get the funding to shoot it, because of all the crazy things he wants to do that sounds more like a hollywood production than an indie film. It will eat up that budget quick.
www.exit101movie.com
exit101movie.blogspot.com
Have you tried talking to him about it?
Bertzie, he should do nothing like that. Once he has confirmation his copyright is valid he should consider having an attorney make that kind of contact with a "cease and desist" notification.
I had a couple of instances where an attorney friend solved one problem with one phone call and another where it took a single letter indicating countersuit considered. In the first a mortgage company suddenly backed off, he charged me $100 for it. In the second instance I had an agreement with the attorney. He took care of "small stuff" like that letter and I was on call for any photography he needed (or wanted).
Worked well for both of us.
I've seen this kind of thing happen before, not with local filming but with other "ventures". The kind of individual who does this, you can't negotiate with, you cannot reason with them, it mostly takes a threat of legal action to back them off. But Azmyth's position of strength starts with a confirmed copyright (or at least confirmed copyright application).
Azmyth, what do your cast members he is trying to "acquire" say about this?
How do they view their commitment to you?
If I were one with an acting commitment to you and were contacted by this guy, I would simply say, "Sorry. I have a previous commitment". I hope your people are doing the same.
Bruce Foreman
I am a reforming videomaking addict
Geez, Az! You get into more trouble than Flash Gordon, man!
I think that's a sign of success lol.
www.exit101movie.com
exit101movie.blogspot.com
I heard a saying once from an elderly man that happened to be a vet and he said..."If your taking the flak...that means your over the target!"
Canon 5D Mk2 / Canon HV20
Yep, no doubt. Here's hoping you survive success, then!
Yep, quite true!
(Trouble is, it also means your enemies have seen you coming.....)
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