MOVIES
Directors union backs Hollywood Writers’ strike
The DGA is all for writers having a “fair and agreeable” contract.
The Hollywood Directors Guild announced Tuesday that they agree with the Writers Guild’s initiatives to amend their contract agreements with production houses and streaming platforms so they get compensated for their work more fairly in the new digital age.
The DGA has said that its members support the WGA in its ongoing negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
What’s happening with the writers’ strike?
Hollywood writers voted on April 17 that if targets were not met during negotiations, the WGA would strike — with an overwhelming 98 percent of writers voting to strike.
With the writers’ contract coming to an end on May 1, the directors have a similar due date not too far behind on May 10.
“As the WGA enters the last week of negotiations before its contract expires on May 1, we support them in their efforts to achieve a fair and reasonable agreement for their members,” the DGA said in a statement. “During this time of significant change for our industry, all the creative talent, artisans, craftspeople, and workers who make the films and television shows that drive our industry deserve to earn a stable living and share in the success we build together.”
“We all have a stake in issues like wages, streaming residuals, funding for our health and pension plans, health and safety, and more,” the DGA continued. “We urge the AMPTP to seriously consider the writers’ concerns and reach a fair and reasonable agreement.”
What do the writers want?
The WGA is looking to restructure the way in which they are compensated for their work in the industry, as the streaming industry has had a great impact on the way audiences view movies — people are more likely to stream movies and tv shows than o to the movies or watch cable television.
Danielle Sanchez-Witzel, one of WGA’s lead negotiators, explained exactly what was happening with the WGA negotiations.
“This is not an ordinary negotiating cycle,” Sanchez-Witzel said. “We are fighting for writers’ economic survival and stability of our profession.”
“We’re disappointed, but not surprised. The companies have never taken our issues seriously without at least the threat of a fight,” the representative said.