Is It Illegal To Write A Screenplay Exactly Like A Book?
Posted by adminNov 27
Because you never see movie that follow it, even if the do cut out parts, cuz then they just add their own stuff.
So I was wondering, if I were to write a screenplay pretty much coping the book, will I get in trouble?
Yes, you cannot legally use a book as source material without paying for the right to do so. Even if you change things, if the source material is clearly not yours, you will be sued for copyright infringement–and lose.
However, if you are writing a screenplay for your own amusement and/or education, or as a school assignment, and it will never be performed except in a classroom, you can use a book as source material.
Trouble is, if you’re teaching yourself and it comes out great, not only can you not attempt to sell it, but you can’t even show it to potential agents or production companies as proof of your talents.
You’d have to get the author and the studio’s permission. No small feat.