How can I protect my intellectual property?

Will Boostyoufilm protect my work? How can I prove plagiarism?

Boostyourfilm cannot protect your screenplay. It’s up to you to do this: protecting your scenario means proving that your article existed before you sent it to Boostyourfilm.

This is not sufficient to prove plagiarism. This is extremely complicated. To conclude that your work has been plagiarised, you are going to have to find at least 20 points of similarities.

To protect your work, there is a simple technique: send yourself the script in a registered letter. Be aware, this letter must never be opened. Keep it in a safe place.

In the digital age, you can protect your scenarios via the internet.

SABAM

SABAM (Société d’Auteurs Belge) has launched a free online deposit service for a first deposit. The site is secure and you can register your masterpiece in just 30 seconds! Just fill out a form to describe your scenario, to add four attached files, to receive a certificate.

Cost: Free (first deposit)

Website: http://sabam.depotonline.eu

Protection: five years (renewable for €20).

SACD

In France, the SACD has finally launched its “e-filing”. Once you have created an account, fill in a short form and attached your file – document word, pdf or archive containing several files.

Cost: €20

Website: https://www.e-dpo.com/en/

Protection: five years renewable.

WGAE

The United States has its own equivalent service for registering your script. The Writers Guild of America allows you to upload your script in minutes. This applies for overseas applications also.

Cost: $10 members, $25 for non-members

Website: www.wgaeast.org/

Protection: Ten years

BECTU

The Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinema & Theatre Union offers a limited service to upload your script. It is only accepted if you are a paid-up member of the union or are working in the industry. It also has a copywriting consultant that offers quick and free advice.

Caution: These methods protect you in your country and in most countries that have signed the Berne Convention. But there are some exceptions, especially the United States. To be protected, you must also deposit your work with the Copyright Office (www.copyright.gov).

In conclusion, it makes sense to protect your scenario! In five minutes you can register your work online. So do not take any chances and especially do not forget to put your registration number on the first page of your scenario.