These days, authors have a variety of ways to monetize their work. In addition to publishing, optioning your work for adaptation for film or TV production is another way to present your work to the public—and another area where your rights need to be protected.

Our legal staff is seeing more film and TV option agreements these days, so we’ve developed this model contract to educate authors about common terms in film and TV option contracts; their rights as authors; and what provisions they can—and should—negotiate.  

How to Use the Model Film and TV Option Contract 

The Model Film and TV Option Contract contains samples of the clauses or provisions you are likely to encounter in an agreement optioning your work for film or TV adaptation, such as:

• The property that is being optioned, which can include the characters and themes contained in the work—so authors who intend to use characters in future works need to take special note.
• The roles authors can play in the adaptation process.
• When an author is entitled to receive bonus compensation.

Every clause is accompanied by commentary explaining what the clause does and how you might improve the language in your own contract.  

While we have attempted to be realistic in drafting these provisions, undoubtedly you will find that our recommendations differ from the language in some film and TV option agreements. Our advice is that you identify the provisions that are most important to you and concentrate on them. 

The Model Film and TV Option Contract enables you to negotiate your contract with a potential producer with knowledge and confidence. Remember, the terms you accept will govern your relationship for years after the contract is signed. 

Please note that while the model contract serves as a sample template, it may not address every situation for every author, nor should it be construed as legal advice.