I've a book/novel I've been working on for a few years stashed on a website; I pick at it when I have the time. At first I really, really wanted to write this & get it published, but have gradually lost interest as I've gotten older and have other things to think about.

Now, part of the book is written in a pseudo movie script format. I hadn't intended for this to be made into a movie, it's just a part of the book.

Enter the email I received from someone claiming to be a 'script hunter' for a studio, and he's just drooling over my piece of thing. Simply has to show it to his bosses. Would I be interested in selling it?

Of course, I'm stunned and heart-a-flutter while reading this, but I'm a sceptic by nature. This sounds too good to be true, no matter how he happened to stumble across it. I voice my hesitation; he supplies a phone number. I call it, speak to another someone who says, yes, they're with this studio. Hmm.

Why do I smell something foul? It's not that I'm attached to the book: I've pretty much abandonded it. I get the feeling that someone is wanting to scoop this up, gain all rights to the names, etc, and sell it for a tidy profit. Meanwhile, I'm left going 'Huh?' and a legal binder to release all rights.

Do you think someone's trying to play me for a sucker?

I'd be very skeptical.  Have you googled this "script hunter"?  You might also want to check some websites such as Writer Beware and Preditors and Editors.

Have you had any contact with literary agents over the years?  They could help negotiate a contract.  DO NOT release all your rights.  At the least, talk to an attorney who has experience in entertainment or publishing.

This is not the way things normally work.  Feel free to PM me if you have any more questions.

I would be very skeptical!

It doesn't usually work that way.  Be careful!

Any legit studio does not send out script hunters to troll the internet looking for new projects to buy.  They acquire projects via agents, lawyers, pitch meetings, referrals, etc.  They also get thousands of unsolicited spec scripts flooding their offices every year.  These guys do not sounds legit.

As a Christian, I know that God will answer if we pray to Him.  Ask Him to close a door or open one regarding this dillema.  Also, we will know them by their fruits.  What else has he done?  Ask to see his other work and talk to those that were involved in the program.  But if you don't feel good about it, run with that.

At the very least, it sounds like there is interest in your work, so why not finish and ask God to lead you regarding it?