Clause by Clause

Explains types of television and film negotiations, defines industry terms, and offers an overview of the contract process

Breimer is a partner in a very successful Los Angeles entertainment law firm; nevertheless, his book is a straightforward, rather than promotional, account of the laws screenwriters should have some knowledge of in negotiating deals for their work. As Breimer advises, screenwriters should have a basic understanding of their rights, even though they will invariably engage a lawyer to negotiate those rights. Thus he begins with a concise, yet enlightening, explanation of the screenwriter's lowly position in Hollywood, goes on to an overview of contracts, and then, in detail and with examples drawn from contracts and from the law, proceeds with options and purchase agreements; writing assignments (work-for-hire situations); copyright, ideas, and titles; collaboration agreements; the role of the producer; and, finally, questions that writers may need to ask their agents or lawyers. Extremely useful for both fledgling and established writers and for certain other professionals in the motion picture business. Bonnie Smothers