Option on a novel for a screenplay

[eszanto]

If someone is interested in a buying an option on a novel by a foreign author for a screenplay, do they contact the publisher of the original book in the foreign language or the publisher of the English translation? What is the best way to find out who can enter into the option agreement? What is customary for an option purchase price? Exact dollar amount? Percentage of proceeds if the movie is made? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

 

[army judge]

If someone is interested in a buying an option on a novel by a foreign author for a screenplay, do they contact the publisher of the original book in the foreign language or the publisher of the English translation?

The original language publisher, as other translations hold licenses for that specific language.

What is the best way to find out who can enter into the option agreement?

You need to know who owns the rights to the book. A Library of Congress search could help, or contacting the owner of the rights to the book.

What is customary for an option purchase price? Exact dollar amount? Percentage of proceeds if the movie is made? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

That is all very speculative.
You could research books that you believe to be of the same value.
You should look at the author, publisher, subject matter, sales to date, etc...