LAist: DGA Cuts a New Deal; Will the WGA Follow?

spoon

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 17:25:40 -0800

The DGA hardly ever strikes, as unlike the WGA and SAG, residuals are not that big a deal for them. Also the DGA is closer to management. SAG and WGA are very close on what they both want from a new contract. it has been noted in the media that the WGA tried to start talks back in April 2007 (contract expired Oct 31, 2007) but the AMPTP only would meet briefly with them in July. In contrast,it seems the AMPTP didn't have any problem meeting with the DGA several months in advance to avoid a strike. Odd.

Andy Sternberg

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 10:10:49 -0800

I don't get the spin on how this is good for the WGA. Why couldn't the directors hold out and -- in the true spirit of union power -- team up with the writers to get even more bang for the buck? Thanks, Lindsay, for actually spelling out the terms of the deal. Now, with the directors accepting considerably less than what the writers are seeking, it seems like AMPTP wins big here, as if to say to the WGA "this is the high-falutin' directors will accept; you'll have to settle for less, you lowly writers." What do the guild members think?