Pricing for a Motion Picture Screenwriter: Quality, Union Rates, and Budget Considerations

The price you pay for a screenplay largely depends on the quality and reputation of the writer. Factors such as their background, experience, and existing credits play a significant role in determining their value. While you can find many writers willing to work for a few thousand dollars, the quality of their work may not match that of established screenwriters like Aaron Sorkin or the Coen Brothers.

Understanding Industry Rates

The Writers Guild (WGA) sets industry rates for union signatories, but for independent producers, the options and payment terms are more flexible. If you hire an independent writer, you can negotiate based on various factors including the script's quality and the producer's financial constraints.

Here are two common scenarios:

Deferred Payment: Some writers might agree to have their fees deferred until the movie is produced and released, and only then if the movie meets certain financial benchmarks. However, this can leave the writer with no guarantee of payment. Negotiated Terms: Other writers might agree to work for a small fee or even for free, in exchange for exposure or future opportunities.

The Value of a Screenplay

The screenplay is often considered the cornerstone of a motion picture. According to industry veterans, the script contributes to only a small percentage of the movie's overall value. For instance, when Steven Spielberg was questioned about the contribution of the script to Amistad, he estimated it to be just 10%. This reflects the industry's perception that even the most talented screenwriter can only bring a certain level of value to a project.

However, top-tier writers can earn substantial incomes, often in the seven-figure range, for big-budget Hollywood movies. But these writers are relatively rare since only a few movies with exceptionally high budgets are produced each year.

Factors Affecting Payment

The amount you pay a screenwriter is influenced by several factors, including the budget of the project. If you're producing a smaller movie with a budget of $50,000 to $100,000, a reasonable fee might range from $2,000 to $3,500. This rate reflects the fact that these projects often have limited resources and may not warrant the full industry rate.

Conclusion and Producers' Perspective

Producers often want to pay as little as possible for their team, including the writer, because the script is just one piece of a larger puzzle. They must weigh the quality of the script against other aspects of the project, such as production value, star power, and marketing.

Ultimately, the quality of the final product is a shared responsibility. While the screenplay is crucial, other aspects of the movie's success are determined by a wide range of factors.