Code of Credits

The Core Concept

A Code of Credits is the definitive rulebook that governs one of the most contentious and important aspects of filmmaking: who gets credit for what. Film credits are not arbitrary; they are the result of complex rules and, often, intense negotiations. The major creative guilds in Hollywood—most notably the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Directors Guild of America (DGA)—have established these detailed codes to ensure a fair, consistent, and legally binding process for assigning credit, thereby protecting the rights and careers of their members.

Key Guilds and Their Rules

The codes of the WGA and DGA are particularly influential:

• Writers Guild of America (WGA): The WGA’s ‘Screen Credits Manual’ is a famously detailed document. It has a rigorous arbitration process to resolve disputes when multiple writers work on a script. Key rules include:

  • “Written by”: Used when the same writer(s) contribute both the story and the screenplay.
  • ”&” vs. “and”: The ampersand (&) is used for a writing team that worked together, while and is used for writers who worked on the script at different times.
  • Contribution Thresholds: A writer must typically contribute at least 33% (for original screenplays) or 50% (for adaptations) to the final script to receive credit.

• Directors Guild of America (DGA): The DGA is famously protective of the director’s singular vision. Its code includes:

  • “One Director Per Film”: The DGA has a very strong rule against multiple directors receiving credit, with only a few exceptions for long-established directing duos (like the Coen Brothers or the Daniels).
  • Possessory Credit: The prestigious “A Film By [Director’s Name]” credit is strictly regulated and only granted to directors who have significant creative control and a track record.

Why It Matters

Credits are a form of currency in Hollywood. They are directly linked to compensation, residuals (payments for re-broadcasts and streaming), and a person’s ability to get future work. The Code of Credits provides a vital framework for resolving disputes and ensures that a person’s creative contribution to a film is formally and fairly recognized.