Silver Screen Placements

[Neil]

And this relates to the question and comments about Silver Screen in what way, Bob?

[Mark]

Neil, I already pointed out above that Silver Screen has been taken off the WGA agent list.

[Neil]

That's fine. I'm wondering what Bob is going on about.

[Mark]

Neil, I was responding to your post where you suggested that the WGA should be contacted about the agency.

[Bob Kellogg]

I guess I didn't make it clear when I said "From that outfit I received my first disclosure agreement." By "that outfit," I meant Silver Screen Placements.

If it doesn't concern you, great.

Bob K.

[Lorrie Jackson]

Bob,

You have piqued my interest. What do you mean by "the practice is slowly spreading to literary agents, too?" Is there a new scam we need to watch for? Or maybe an old one I just haven't heard about?

Lorrie

[Bob Kellogg]

Thievery is so rampant in Hollywood that everyone is paranoid. Before they'll look at a screenplay, you must sign an agreement. That document seems to have been developed over time to prevent your being able to sue them if you see something in print or on the screen that sounds like your work, even if it's identical.

Unknowns have a hard time selling ideas, and they can't be copyrighted. The only real protection is your own writing style. No one can do it like you do. But an idea? Anyone can take your idea.

I've seen several literary agents who won't read sample work if you don't sign a virtually identical release. They're mostly agents who are active in Hollywood as well as publishing.

In truth, it's highly unlikely that any literary agency would steal an idea. Think what they'd have to go through. Find someone to write the thing, then find someone to buy it. Much easier to try and sell the original manuscript.

Still, it's a decision that every author must make when confronted with such a document.

Bob K.

PS: As I've mentioned before, James W Hall wrote a novel named BUZZ CUT. The nearly identical story appeared as a film, SPEED II. Hall said his manuscript had been circulating in HWood for six months before they started the film's script. He was gratified that it sunk like a stone. "Didn't do a good enough job of stealing," he said.

[Lorrie Jackson]

Thanks Bob!

Lorrie

[jill]

John,

I just have to ask. Are you any relation to Lana Pepitone?