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Dear Breakup Girl,

My girlfriend broke up with me and left me hanging on with every breath. She inspired my new screenplay and I'm wondering if I should tell her that I'm making a film that's loosely based on our relationship. I think that if I do that, then there's absolutely no chance of getting back together with her. I hope you help me out in my dilemma. Thanks.

-- Carmelo

|Dear Carmelo,

Yep, you make that film, and there's next to no chance of "You've Got More Mail: The Sequel" in real life. As long as you do understand that. Otherwise, yeah, clue her in. Your relationship may have had a surprise ending, but still, it's only fair that her ex-best-boy give her a heads-up. You should also assure her that it is indeed only "inspired by" and "loosely-based" -- and I assume you'll be telling the truth when you do. Yes, you are entitled -- and encouraged -- to "write what you know." Who doesn't? (Well...) But notice: write, not spite. I'm not saying you have to falsely warm-fuzzify. But you have of course disguised details, preserved secrets, avoided actual documentary footage, right? Just follow this metro-goldwyn rule: do not unto others as you would not have Nora Ephron do unto you.

Love,
Breakup Girl

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