Do scripts get stolen?

[smoovebd]

I'm not sure if my script was stolen, because the picture didn't come out yet, it just finished filming.  I believe my idea however, certainly was lifted.  I sent the production company a few query letters, possibly explaining too much.  Obviously with no interest from them.  The contract with my shitty agent had already expired.   

Anyone know if this common?   And if so, what can I do about my latest script, in order to protect myself?   I know it won't be sent to any production companies.

Any ideas would be helpful, thank you. 

BD

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[Chris]

You should probably take a look at this thread by FSUWriter:

http://www.screenplaytalk.com/forum/index.php/topic,104.0.html

[caissiela]

Definately take out that thread because it covers a lot.  The main thing, only because this has happened to me a few times, is keeping in mind the time it takes to get a script off the ground.  When did you send to them?  A script getting bought, made, and put out in theaters usually takes a long time.  So if you just submitted in the last few months and they're wrapping up production now...chances are they didn't take your idea.  If that's the case...as much as it stinks...at least you're writing material that sells. 

If you sent to them a few years back then I would say there's a possibility that it was stolen.  However, it would actually be cheaper for any established company to just straight up by your material rather than steal it and risk any lawsuits.

[smoovebd]

I emailed them 4 years ago, plenty of time to steal the idea and make it.  I'm just going to have to see what's in the movie.  I'll put mine script against up it, there's room for two movies with a similar premise.

The question that's still unanswered is, what route do I take with my newly finished script?  I know which way not to go.

Thanks for the help.

BD
 

[caissiela]

I don't think you should shy away from sending to production companies.  I know that sounds crazy considering what you've told us...but it's still a route to be taken.  Ideally it would be great if you could get an agent and let them send it out, but that's not always an option.  (speaking from experience)  You just need to be selective with where you send your query to.  If they're big name reputable companies then I wouldn't worry about it.  As long as you've registered your script at the WGA and have it (C) at the library of congress then you've done all that you can do to protect yourself. You spent all this time writing...you have to let people read it.

[rdmyscript]

I know this might be a dumb question but you never mentioned whether or not you had it registered your script with the WGA or had it copywritten. Wouldn't that make your work protected??? That is a fear I have right now, I'm having a hard time trusting anybody talking about my finished script even though my work is registered with the WGA. Does that protect your work or am i being niave???

[Saramack]

First, no studio would steal your script.  They would rather pay you the 20 + - thousand dollars than have you take them to court and get four times that.  Second,  This is why no real agency will even look at our script unless it is registered.  Third, if your script is registered, this does not keep people from stealing it.  They can even register it.  Then it comes down to who registered it first.  This is why it is important that your register each major rewrite.  I tend to keep my scripts between myself and my studio partners until I have a pretty polished script then register it.  After that I will allow most people to see parts of my script.  I rarely send the entire thing.  And don't bother sending your script to every agency you find in the phone book.  If they are a legit agency they will just throw it away and never open it.  They will first ask for a referral.  Then a query letter, then your script.