So, I'm writing a comedy spoof (which I do not intend to become the next _____ Movie movie; they suck) and I have a scene that is familiar to "The Bear Jew" scene from Inglourious Basterds. How far can/should I go with reusing ideas? And what's the rule for references outside of comedic uses? J.R.
If you're doing a direct spoof, then you can copy the character's mannerisms in broad strokes. But only briefly -- if it goes on too long then you are ripping off, not spoofing (e.g., you decide to make another's character the protagonist in your story). If you are not directly spoofing a specific scene or character and just writing something similar (which is what this sounds like), then the two incidents can only be similar in the broadest of strokes (e.g., both characters are cops). If you starting echoing specific characteristics, then you are ripping off. To be honest -- unless you are doing a direct spoof -- if you come up with a character or a scene that is similar to something that has already been done, then you should probably toss it and come up with something else. Also, referencing the character/scene you are taking off ("Wow, this is just like that scene in Forrest Gump!") does not make something a homage. Hope this helps. Ray Morton
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