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Two Hollywood Unions Start New Contract Talks With Studios
Crew members move a set piece at Beachwood Services in Santa Clarita, Calif.
(
Tracy Nguyen for NPR
)
Topline:
The International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and Hollywood Basic Crafts have started talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) to negotiate two contracts expiring July 31.
Why it matters: The unions represent more than 60,000 film and TV workers. They are initially seeking an agreement on pension and health benefits. Then IATSE will negotiate additional issues with AMPTP. After last year’s WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes put crew members out of work for six months, the stakes are high for avoiding another work stoppage.
What IATSE wants: The union is seeking increased compensation and worker protections, from safety on set to mandated rest periods to rules governing AI uses. Mike Miller, an IATSE vice president, said: “We have to put our members in a position to feel like they have some job security...that they're not going to be replaced with machines or robots.”
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The studios’ likely counter: One studio executive told The Ankler that they’re worried about the higher production costs that would stem from accepting IATSE’s demands. “Where do you save that money? Shoot less days? With simpler scripts?” the executive said.
For more... read the full story on The Ankler.
This story is published in partnership with The Ankler, a paid subscription publication about the entertainment industry.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
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