Nikki Finke’s Deadline Hollywood Daily » A Marvel-ous Idea For Screenwriters….

Marvel Studios has started a writers program. The goal is to put more than half a dozen film writers on staff, give them an office, and “work them like horses!,” one of my sources says. I’ve confirmed this smart move. (Makes you realize how backwards Warner Bros is by comparison on their DC Comics film development.) No Marvel comic book writers are allowed to apply for the program. One source tells me the terms of the program “are apparently more onerous than the terms of the Disney Writers Program. Before the writers are even allowed to come in and meet, they must sign a non-disclosure agreement and a 70-page, non-negotiable contract. Among other things, the contract gives Marvel ownership over everything the writers create during the one year term of his deal, plus a first look and last refusal to any and all projects the writers have previously written or will write for 24 months in the future.” Egads! Unfortunately, with Hollywood feature development at a near standstill, I suspect Marvel could have its pick of film writers in exchange for $5 and a hot lunch.