Documentary Film and Nonfiction Programming
The WGAW is committed to increasing documentary film and low budget screenwriters' status and influence within the film industry. We seek to expand writers' coverage through the use of the WGA's Documentary Screenplay Contract and Low Budget Agreement for films budgeted at $1.2 million and below. These agreements were revised in 2013 to include certain work-for-hire situations, reduced upfront payments, and a flexible deferment definition.
DOCUMENTARY SCREENPLAY CONTRACT
The Documentary Screenplay Contract is a contract designed to meet the demands of the documentary film business as well as ensure the rights and benefits for writers of theatrically released documentaries budgeted at $1.2 million or below.
Read about how the Documentary Screenplay Contract works and obtain the filing documents.
THE DOCUMENTARY SCREENPLAY AWARD
First presented in 2005, the WGA Documentary Screenplay Award was established to spotlight the writer’s primary role in documentary filmmaking’s creative process, recognize the fact that the majority of non-fiction feature films are written, and highlight the benefits of working under a Writers Guild contract.
The Documentary Screenplay Award is presented—along with film, TV, new media, radio, news, videogame, promo, and graphic animation awards categories—at the Writers Guild Awards at simultaneous ceremonies in Los Angeles and New York City.
See a list of previous winners & nominees and submission details. A Writers Guild contract is required for eligibility.
WORKING IN NONFICTION
Whether you are nonfiction writer working on basic cable, PBS, or for a feature film documentary, you can have your work protected by a WGA contract. The Guild has negotiated dozens of agreements for low budget nonfiction programming.
For more information, contact Member Organizing.
HELPFUL LINKS
International Documentary Association
Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program
For more helpful links, read our list of Industry Organizations.