Script Writer Agreement
This Script Writer Agreement is a legally binding contract where a business commissions a writer to create a script for a short film, in return for an agreed fee and, where specified, a share of net profits of the film.
It sets out the terms and conditions on which the writer will develop and deliver drafts of the script, the payments to be made, how intellectual property rights are dealt with, and the responsibilities of both parties throughout development, production and exploitation of the film.
To view our Writer/Director Agreement, click here. To view our Director Agreement, click here.
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Agreement preview
What's it about?
It explains:
- how and when the writer will deliver the script and any revisions;
- how the writer will be paid, including any fixed fees, expenses and royalties;
- who owns and controls the copyright and other intellectual property rights in the script and the film;
- the producer’s right to develop, alter, exploit or not use the script;
- confidentiality, publicity, credit and professional conduct; and
- how disputes will be resolved and how the agreement may be ended.
This Agreement applies to freelancers who are commissioned to create a script.
Important: This Agreement should be read as a legally binding contract. Once signed, many of the rights and obligations are permanent and cannot be changed or withdrawn.
Who is this Agreement for?
This Agreement is for:
- businesses commissioning scripts for short films of between 10 and 15 minutes in length; and
- writers providing scriptwriting services on a freelance basis.
The screen industries often involve freelance work, short-term contracts, power imbalances and informal working environments, making it especially important that expectations around behaviour are clear, consistent and widely understood.
It is designed to be used with:
- short film development production agreements;
- the CEDR mediation process;
- BFI guidance on anti-bullying, harassment and racism; and
- Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
What this Agreement is not?
This Agreement is not intended to:
- act as a contract of employment; or
- create a relationship of employment of between the parties.
This model Agreement may help to explain common provisions found in Pact UK contracts, enabling your business to better understand the relevant terms and adapt them where necessary to suit your needs. Pact UK negotiates with unions such as Bectu and Equity to produce industry-standard model contracts for independent production companies in the UK. These model agreements are accessible via a paid membership.
Why script writing matters?
The script is a foundational part of a film. Clear agreement on authorship, ownership, payment and creative control helps protect both the writer and the business. This in turn reduces the risk of disputes and supports successful and compliant working relationships within the screen industries.
This Agreement is therefore intended to balance creative contribution with the commercial and practical realities of producing short films.
Our commitment to best practice in the screen industries?
This Agreement reflects best practice guidance developed for the UK screen industries and aligns with recognised industry standards, including: