A strike by WGA (Writers Guild of America, the union of American screenwriters that protects their copyright) and Hollywood actors and actresses, SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – Actors Federation of Television and Radio Artists of America), the American professional union of actors, broke out in New York.
This historic double strike, the first of its kind since 1960, resulted from the lack of a viable agreement between the two unions and the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), which covers studios and streaming platforms.
The two unions are calling for a reassessment of rights and working conditions, increased fixed and residual wages (royalties), in particular for streaming content, less time-consuming casting processes and a framework for the use of artificial intelligence.
The screenwriters have already been on strike since May 2, and the actors’ and actresses’ strike since July 14 has given significant support to their action, which has become a much more influential movement. Indeed, this historic double strike is paralyzing the film and television industry as many performances – movies and TV series – have been suspended, promotional campaigns for upcoming movies have been canceled and the release dates of certain movies and TV shows have been pushed back or postponed.
A double strike until 2024?
And the already critical situation can continue for a very long time. Some Insiders The US media has discussed a possible end to the strike in November, but if Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, national executive director and chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA, is to be believed, the strike could last until 2024!
The SAG-AFTRA president’s privileged staffer, Fran Drescher (Nanny from Hell), with whom he officially announced the strike, told. Sydney Morning Herald That he thought it might last until next year:
“I’m not ruling out January or February. Everyone has to work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen, but the only way to make sure it doesn’t happen is to find a way to a fair deal. And we’re not going to compromise on the fundamental principles of fairness that our employees are fighting for.”
SAG-AFTRA, like the WGA, is determined to go ahead with the strike, no matter what it costs to listen to the studios, especially since the link is broken. “I sent a letter to the AMPTP and formally informed them of the strike, but other than that there was no direct communication between us.Duncan Crabtree-Ireland explained.
The problem is that the studios’ response to the two unions’ demands must be unanimous in order for the parties to enter into a viable agreement. And that’s one of the reasons that could slow down new talks, with studios eager to end the strike quickly. The cards are in their hands.
Meanwhile, the entire industry is suffering, for good reason, but which in the long run could have truly disastrous consequences. Fortunately, SAG-AFTRA has an emergency strike fund to which he contributed significantly. Just like a certain Dwayne Johnson who made a huge check to SAG-AFTRA to support the movement and the striking actors and actresses.
according to Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, “This fund is used to help members who need financial assistance, whether it’s paying rent, paying health insurance premiums, or anything else.
Aware that some members of the AMPTP were extremely cynical about the future of striking union members – they suggested that the situation would worsen “until they lose their homes” – it is fortunate that this strike fund exists so that unions can continue to fight for their rights in the industry. but until when
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
