The Writers Guild of America has been on strike since early November. For those of you new to the issue, here’s a brief update :
The Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers (AMPTP) is a group of large media companies that have interests in all facets of the film, television and theatrical business. Five companies (GE, Disney, Viacom, News Corp. and Time Warner) now control over 75% of television viewing and motion picture box office.
The major studios and networks made $95 billion in revenues last year alone. And they expect that number to increase with the advent of the Internet and digital broadcasting. When it comes to some new media distribution, the conglomerates are proposing to pay writers nothing.. On permanent downloads or “electronic sell-through” they’re offering less than 1/3 of a penny for every dollar they make; the same that writers make on DVDs.
Read other FAQs including more on why the whole new media issue is important.
How does the strike affect you? Well, it may be a while before you see any new episodes of your favorite sitcom or that new movie release you were waiting for. Who do you think does that work? :)
The support for the writers strike has been tremendous. The latest show of solidarity comes from Vanity Fair’s cancellation of its Oscar party. “Imagine a wedding reception without food, music or champagne…” That’s how the NY Times described the Oscars without the party.
The latest news is that the strike could well end this week, following negotiations tomorrow. Watch this space for updates.
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