Creating an Adaptation

[Alien Enigma]

In the future I would like to try to adapt one of HP Lovecraft's stories into a screenplay. Will I need to get permission from the Lovecraft Historical Society before I do this or will I only worry about this if someone is interested in making a film of it?

[dpaterso]

If you intend for the screenplay to ever go further than your own PC, you'll need to seek permission from the copyright owner, which is likely to cost you money. Permission may be denied for a variety of reasons, e.g. if media rights to the story have already been optioned or sold. Best to check first.

Then again, there are tales of writers who adapted stories or novels without seeking permission first, and whose script so impressed a director or prodco that they not only bought the screenplay but also paid extra to option the rights. (Damned if I can think of any off the top of my head... but I've read the tales. Maybe it's urban myth, or maybe someone can think of examples.)

-Derek

[Alien Enigma]

Alright. Thanks Derek. I appreciate it. I was thinking that but wasn't sure how that all worked. Thanks again.

[NikeeGoddess]

do your research
http://www.hplovecraft.com/popcult/moviestv/

[Plot Device]

Derek, I believe there was Wonder Woman script that a couple of nobodies wrote and were able to sell. (Maybe urban legend.)

[xhouseboy]

Didn't copyright on Lovecraft's work expire last year? 70 years after the author's death.

I could be wrong. I'm just asking.

[dpaterso]

Didn't copyright on Lovecraft's work expire last year? 70 years after the author's death.

I could be wrong. I'm just asking.
I think you're right. I figured that was why OP was interested in an HPL story. But the copyright could have been renewed or rights sold by the estate, so I'd advise OP to check afore putting quill to parchment. Nikee's links list what's been made into films or TV shows, but not what's been optioned.

-Derek

[Alien Enigma]

A lot of good information is here. Thanks for the input.