What are the legal aspects of book-to-film adaptations?

Question

I'm considering writing a script based on a good book I read. I'm wondering how I can go about this without infringing on the law. Is simply writing "based upon ____ by _____ enough to write it? If not, (and I'm pretty sure it isn't) what else is required? Thank you

Answer 1

Titles cannot be copyrighted, nor can ideas. Writing a script based on a novel requires nothing (legally). Publishing it requires permission from the author of the novel (in writing, with witnesses) and usually a clause guaranteeing the author a certain portion of the earnings, and credit at the end of the film or play. That's about it.