Independent Film
The WGAW is committed to increasing independent and low budget screenwriters' status and influence within the film industry. We seek to expand writers' coverage through the use of the WGA's Low Budget Agreement and Documentary Screenplay Contract for films budgeted at $1.2 million and below. These agreements were revised in 2013 to include certain work-for-hire situations, reduced upfront payments, and a flexible deferment definition.
Read a financial summary of the Low Budget Agreement and the Documentary Screenplay Contract.
THE LOW BUDGET AGREEMENT
The Low Budget Agreement allows writers to write and sell a narrative feature-length screenplay under the protection of the Writers Guild if the theatrical film’s budget is at or below $1.2 million. The best time to contact the Guild is before a screenplay is going to be purchased or when a writer will be hired to write a screenplay. Are you interested in filing a Low Budget Agreement for a theatrical film project? To obtain the Low Budget Agreement Filing Documents, go here.
Learn how to join the WGAW through use of the WGA Low Budget Agreement.
DOCUMENTARY FILMS
The Documentary Screenplay Contract allows writers to write or sell a theatrical documentary screenplay under the protection of the Writers Guild of America West, while deferring all or part of their writing fees.
For more information, go to Documentary Film and Nonfiction Programming.
FILM FESTIVALS AND FILM & TV ORGANIZATIONS
For a list of film festivals and film and television organizations, go here.
CONTACT US
If you have questions about WGAW Member Organizing, call (323) 782-4567 or email: WGAW Member Organizing.