15 July 2023, Mumbai: Hollywood has entered uncharted territory as negotiations between major studios, screenwriters, and actors have collapsed. For the first time in decades, both writers and actors are manning picket lines to demand better contracts. However, studio executives argue that their demands are unreasonable, resulting in an impasse that is affecting the future of their careers.
Major Players in the Negotiations: Screen Actors Guild, Writers Guild of America, and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers
There are three major players involved in the negotiations. The Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) union represent over 160,000 members, including actors, stunt coordinators, voiceover artists, and background actors. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is a union representing writers in film, television, radio, and online. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) represents major film studios, television networks, and streaming giants.
Actors Struggle to Make Ends Meet: Plummeting Residuals Impact Livelihoods
The advent of streaming has transformed the entertainment landscape, including how actors are compensated. Traditionally, actors and writers received upfront payments for their work, supplemented by residuals from re-runs of TV shows and films. However, the rise of streaming has led to a significant decrease in residuals, impacting the livelihoods of actors and writers.
Actors like Michael Patrick Lane have experienced a decline in residuals, with some earning as little as $300 for multiple episodes of television. This has had a detrimental effect on their income, making it challenging to support their families and pursue their careers. Both actors and writers are striking for a more equitable division of profits from movies and television.
Equity and Healthcare Concerns: SAG-AFTRA Fights for Fairness and Access
SAG-AFTRA argues that the majority of their members barely make above minimum wage, and many rely on joining the union for health insurance. However, only a small percentage of members qualify for healthcare coverage, and older actors are removed from the insurance plan after turning 65. The AMPTP claims to have proposed substantial increases in pension and health contribution caps.
AI Proposal Sparks Controversy: Ownership and Compensation Disputes Emerge.
In an unexpected twist, AI has become a major point of contention. The AMPTP offered a proposal that involved performers’ digital likenesses and required their consent for the creation and use of digital replicas. However, SAG rejected the idea, expressing concerns over ownership and compensation for performers.
Uncertain Duration of the Strike: Both Sides Firmly Dug In
The duration of the strike remains uncertain, with both sides firmly entrenched. Strikes often lead to a lack of negotiation, and it may take time for both unions to return to the table. The writers’ strike has already lasted three months with no resolution in sight. During the strikes, Hollywood stars are prohibited from participating in film premieres, festivals, conventions, and red carpets due to union rules.
While the strike poses significant challenges, Maya Gilbert-Dunbar, a dual member of SAG and the Writers Guild, remains hopeful that a suitable contract agreement can be reached. She acknowledges that strikes are the beginning of the negotiation process, and hopes that both parties can secure a deal that justifies the strike and benefits everyone involved.