Would you accept a screenplay that is an adaptation of a published book, where the writer has contractually optioned the movie rights to the book?

We do accept adaptations, however, the source material must also have been written by the screenwriter of the adaptation. You must also retain the rights to the published book. If you are in compliance with this rule: By entering the Big Break Contest, you represent that your entry is your original work, and does not infringe on the copyright or other rights of other people - then you can enter. However, we cannot offer legal advice or an opinion or whether or not you own the rights. We recommend that you consult an attorney if you plan to pursue the projects, as the question regarding rights would eventually come up and need to be addressed prior to anyone's optioning or buying the script.