Fade in – if you pay the price. How much does it cost to hire a script writer?

As a script writer for hire and UK script consultant I’ve currently got lots of script writing work on at the moment. I’m also working on a couple of original scripts for my own portfolio.

This website has been (over the last few years) a great way for me to get script writing work of all kinds. From TV scripts, film scripts, scripts for marketing videos (even a 90 minute comedy drama – written for an eLearning platform). I’ve worked with all kinds or producers, directors, organisations and individuals. I’ve given them access to a BAFTA nominated script writer, without the need for an agent, or middleman.

However, I still occasionally get approached by producers or directors asking me if I’ll work for free, or on spec with the promise of some cash further down the line.

For clarity – here are my rates (based on Writers Guild Pact Rates)

I will not write a feature film script for less than the minimums outlined here.

MY MINIMUM RATES as a script writer for hire on a feature film.

  • Commencement Payment: 1,350
  • Acceptance Payment: 1,350
  • First Draft Commencement Payment: 4,725
  • Delivery Payment: 4,725
  • Second Draft Commencement Payment: 1,620
  • Delivery Payment: 1,620
  • Principal Photography Payment: 3,510
  • Total minimum payment for films budgeted below £750,000 – £18,900

For films which reach production based on higher budgets the figures will be adjusted to put the final figure to the below minimums.

Total minimum payment for films budgeted below £2 Million- £25,600

Total minimum payment for films budgeted above £2 Million- £42,120

If you can’t afford these minimums – please do not contact me at the present time…

Matthew Cooper has been a script writer for hire for over 20 years. He’s written for most of the UK soaps, including writing award winning episodes of Emmerdale, EastEnders, Hollyoaks and Family Affairs and has been BAFTA shortlisted and Royal Television Society nominated as a script writer. He’s also a leading UK script consultant. You can find some of his broadcast credits on the IMDb. You can get in touch with Matthew on matcoop23@yahoo.co.uk or hire him on Peopleperhour