Why a Movie’s Setting Doesn’t Matter

Trust the legal experts

Richard Walter
Moving Pictures

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Beyond writing and teaching I have an additional number of side hustles.

One of the most fascinating is court-authorized expert on intellectual property law. I have testified regularly in litigation regarding copyright infringement and plagiarism. The question before the court is invariably a version of: Who really wrote the movie?

In some instances I am retained by plaintiffs; in others by defendants.

Few experiences mellow the spirit like meeting with a bunch of lawyers and, instead of paying money to them, they pay money to you.

The issues are fascinating. They explore the very nature of creative expression. The cases are also glamorous, involving among other items blockbuster films, big shot writers, producers, directors, and no small contingent of movie stars.

These cases rarely go to court. They almost always settle. Even in those rare instances where they go to court, prior to a finding by the judge or jury the parties reach an agreement. Most of the testimony I provide is not in court, therefore, but in depositions in lawyers’ offices during the so-called ‘discovery’ phase of the trial, pre-court proceedings where each side gets to ask the other just what it is that they have.

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Richard Walter
Moving Pictures

Screenwriter, bestselling author, and 40 years leadership @ UCLA’s prestigious screenwriting program. Get 40 lessons from 40 years: richardwalter.com/newsletter