I've completed my screenplay and I'm debating whether to register it with copyright.gov or with the wga. It costs money, money that I need for my film! lol. I was thinking of mailing it to myself. I'm not going to share it with anyone, except for a couple of close friends for some feedback. I am curious though, what if someone steals my idea? Will the "Poor Man's Copyright" hold up in court?

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my idea? Will the "Poor Man's Copyright" hold up in court?

no, i researched that before and its pretty worthless. if you're a real penny-pincher just get a creative commons license.

That is a myth. That won't help you at all.

If you're only showing it to close friends you trust, I wouldn't worry about it.

what's a creative commons license? And how do I get one? How much do they go for? Thanks.

While it seems like a silly use of money, I am spending the $20 and registering my most recent script with the WGA. It's funny, because I know no one will steal my idea (I'm just a college student), but it feels good to write WGA registered on the title page. It will impress my film friends.

If you're really worried, just register your script for peace of mind.

http://creativecommons.org/

A Creative Commons license is free, but not what you're looking for.