Ghost writers V.S Collaborators

Which is more advantageous?

[Lef2Write]

I've recently completed a feature screenplay. Most of the constructive criticism I've received indicate that the script is "good." They all allude to the fact that the story could use a little more suspense in order to make it a "great" script. I'm embarrassed to admit that I have exhausted all of my ideas in regards to enhancing the quality of this screenplay. I strongly believe that two heads are better than one and decided to venture down this route. Which is the more advantageous method, hiring a ghost writer or finding someone to collaborate on the script? My hope is that I can provide a writer with my 98 page script and he/she could contribute substantially to the rewrite without deviating from the existing theme. Also which is more affordable and easier to obtain?

[varya]

It depends how much of the royalties you want to share with the other person.

If you give your script to someone else, and they substantially rewrite it, they might wind up with most of the royalty as well (and credit for writing it).

Unless you're desperate to complete it and market it right now, I'd suggest sticking it in a drawer for awhile and coming back to it in a couple of months.

[rogerd]

Lef2Write, welcome to WebmasterWorld!

Whichever path you choose, be sure to have a written agreement - this will avoid disputes as to ownership, royalties, etc., should the script get purchased.

If you have significant financial resources, finding someone who can rewrite it on a "work for hire" basis would probably be best - this will let you retain full ownership of the script. If you lack financial resources, or have little confidence in the script, finding a partner to rewrite it and help market it might work better. Be sure all elements of your understanding are in writing, though, and allow for contingencies. For example, if your "partner" gets a great contract for another project and abandons you before work on your script is complete, you want to be able to retain full ownership. Good luck!

[Lef2Write]

Varya- I would hire somone with the agreement that he/she refrain from changing too much of what I've already written (98 pages). A standard screenplay shouldn't be more than 140 pages. Therefore, if they adhere to this stipulation (which I admit will make things harder) They shouldn't produce more than what I've done. Although your suggestion to put away the script for awhile is great advice, I can't take that chance. On my two previous projects I took all the time in the world. On both occasions I had to abandon my screenplays because movies came out with strikingly similar plots. I'd strangle myself if this happens to me a third time. The theme of my current script is pretty original so I have hope that I can market it before somebody else produces a similar story. Unfortunately, this haste is preventing me from writing at my very best as my work schedule is also extremely hectic. Thanks for the reply.

Rogerd- In regards to having a contract written up, should this be done through a lawyer or will a notarized document be sufficient?

[rogerd]

I would recommend a lawyer, particularly if you place a high value on this script and are going to stipulate details of what the writer can and can't do. A plain vanilla agreement might be available from a source like the Writers Guild (wga.org) or similar site.

[Lef2Write]

Varya- I forwarded a reply (twice) to your stickymail. I have no way of confirming the transaction status as my out box continues to show "EMPTY." Some instruction text pops up very briefly when I push the "submit" function. Not enough time to read it though. Did you receive the reply?

Rogerd- Thanks I will use your outstanding advice!

[varya]

Yes, I received it, twice. Had to get the kids to bed and didn't have time to reply to it last night.