Remake?
Many people might misunderstand, thinking that a remake simply involves buying the script from the screenwriter again.
But that's not always the case.
First, you need to see what the remake is based on.
Is it adapted from the original novel or the script? If it's the former, then you pay the original author, like with Jin Yong's works.
If it's based on the script, then you need to see who holds the copyright to the script.
Generally, when film companies purchase a script, they buy the copyright as well.
For example, "Lost on Journey."
No matter who made this script, Feiyang Media bought the copyright directly, so any subsequent remakes and sequels remain in Feiyang Media's hands.
Same with "Infernal Affairs."
It sold for a sky-high international copyright price, benefitting the film company, not a few screenwriters.
Of course, it mainly depends on the agreement.
