Screenplay Portrayal

[dbrossman]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? PA

I am writing a screenplay based on actual events and involving actual persons. Officially, my agent says that this is my "dramatic portrayal of actual events" and that frees me from any threat of libel. I am, however, extremely worried as to how several, still-living individuals may respond as their bad behavior is represented...they come across as being not so nice people. My research supports what I have written and I have statements from people who were there...but as an experienced newspaper writer, I know how fast memories fade when heat is applied. If I stick to my guns, is the defense of "this is how I interpreted the material" good enough or am I exposing myself to a whole lot of legal trouble from people who have the money to engage in a lengthy lawsuit?

THANKS SO MUCH!!! I appreciate any and all advice.

db

 

[BelizeBreeze]

As a former newspaper report you should know that any top-left, frontpage story needs to be first approved by your desk editor then, if a question still arises, the Publisher who, if there are still concerns, will pass it on to the in-house counsel.

Now, why would you rely on a publisher to make such a far reaching legal opinion?

 

[Rhubarb297]

As a former newspaper report you should know that any top-left, frontpage story needs to be first approved by your desk editor then, if a question still arises, the Publisher who, if there are still concerns, will pass it on to the in-house counsel.

Now, why would you rely on a publisher to make such a far reaching legal opinion?

And the "top-right" frontpage stories don't need to be approved by the desk editor? What if it's in the middle of the page?

Newpaper writers generally have all their work reviewed by editors regardless of where it is in the newspaper. In fact, it's the editors who decide where the piece will run in the paper, not the reporters.

 

[BelizeBreeze]

And the "top-right" frontpage stories don't need to be approved by the desk editor? What if it's in the middle of the page?

Newpaper writers generally have all their work reviewed by editors regardless of where it is in the newspaper. In fact, it's the editors who decide where the piece will run in the paper, not the reporters.

And when did you last own a newspaper? When did you last hold the title Publisher?

Not all stories in the newspaper are 'approved' by an editor. In fact, most stories are read, corrected, rearranged and filed without the editor 'approving' them.

As for your littel attempt to hijack yet another thread, nice try.

 

[dbrossman]

Just forget it...

Newspapers?!

 

[mabenedetto]

In general, if your audience can identify the people about whom you are writing, the fact that you use a "fictional material" or "dramatic portrayal" disclaimer will not insulate you from a lawsuit.

Defamation law is complicated subject. Your potential to be sued depends heavily on whether you're writing about public figures (i.e. famous people) or private individuals (i.e. not famous).

I advise you to consult with an entertainment attorney who is knowledgeable in this area.

I hope you found this helpful.