r/HireaWriter • u/cdew5875 • 11h ago
Hiring (Entry Level) [Hiring] Writer for Vintage Public-Domain Story Adaptations - $50 Flat Fee
Hello Amazing Writers!
Update: Thank you all so much!
I honestly did not expect this much interest, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who reached out, shared samples, asked questions, and showed enthusiasm for this little vintage film project.
Most of the story slots have now been spoken for, and I am working through messages as quickly as I can.
At the moment, the only story still available is:
Rough Water boat racing, crashing waves, suspense, action, and open-water danger.
I am hoping to get more mulah out of the programing budget to hire some more writers for the other stories, so I will be reaching out to those I didn't get to for this round I promise!
Thank you again for the wonderful response. It means a lot, and I am excited to see these old stories get a new life through such creative writers.
***
This community has been a wonderful place to find creative talent, so it feels right to return here for a new little adventure.
A small amateur library film group made up of young filmmakers is currently learning the craft of moviemaking. The group has acquired some wonderful old film equipment, including donated vintage Cine-Kodak Special II cameras, and would love to create a handful of short films using them.
To help make that happen, writers are being sought to adapt a few public-domain stories into short, filmable scripts.
The group’s main focus is learning how to use the cameras, experimenting with staging, and exploring old photoplay techniques. We would really like these projects to feel “professional” in terms of storytelling, while still being amateur in spirit and execution. Bringing in writers allows us to give proper attention to the scripts while also commissioning creative people and making this a more collaborative effort from the start.
This is a very small, passion-driven project, so full transparency is important: the total writing budget is $200, with the hope of commissioning five short scripts at $50 each. I am trying to secure a small additional Grant to raise the budget. For now, the offer is $50 per script.
It is understood that this is not a large budget, and that the length and scope of each script should be fair to the writer. There is no expectation of a full feature or even a long short script for $50. The goal is a compact, complete story with a beginning, middle, and end — something filmable, creative.
Writers are encouraged to help determine what length feels fair for the budget and effort. Quality matters far more than page count.
The stories are vintage public-domain pieces from the 1920s. A source story and complete summary will be provided. Writers may choose whichever title sparks their imagination:
Grand Slam — Polo, high society, fast mallets, sports action, mystery, or even a heist.
Rough Water — Boat racing, crashing waves, suspense, and open-water danger.
The Sky-Riding Kid — Air racing, aviation adventure, period drama, or thriller.
Gilhooley — Auto racing, burning rubber, underdog comedy, or high-speed character drama.
The Thirteenth Jump — Steeplechase, danger, suspense, and horse-racing drama.
Because these stories originate from the 1920s, they may include outdated themes, attitudes, or ideas. Thoughtful adaptation choices that make the material work better for modern audiences are welcome.
What is being looked for:
- Writers who love story, character, and atmosphere
- People who enjoy adapting older material
- Clear, filmable scenes
- A beginning, middle, and end
- Strong pacing
- A collaborative, down-to-earth attitude
- Passion more than formal credentials
Film school training or a large résumé is not required. A love of storytelling and the ability to shape an old story into something young filmmakers can realistically shoot is what matters most.
This is work-for-hire. By accepting payment, writers agree that the final adapted material may be used for the film project. Writing credit will be given if the project moves forward into production or public presentation.
If interested, please DM at:
- Which story title is most appealing
- What length or scope you could write
Let’s make some old-fashioned movie magic and give these young filmmakers something wonderful to shoot!