The Ripple Effect: How the Hollywood Strike Is Reshaping the Entertainment Industry
On August 9, 2023, the Hollywood writers' strike reached a significant milestone, as it entered its 100th day. This strike was initiated by the Writers Guild of America (WGA), which represents 11,500 screenwriters. It commenced on May 2, 2023, following unsuccessful negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The strike has caused a sense of uncertainty in the entertainment industry. Actors, writers, and essential workers behind the scenes have been at a stalemate in their fight for equal footing in the ever-expanding world of film and television.
Fran Drescher, acclaimed actress and crusader, has become a powerful voice in the battle for SAG rights. Her mesmerizing talent and tenacity have driven her to stand up for performers' fair treatment in the entertainment industry.
Drescher's excursion into a major player in the SAG movement began with her own experiences of unfairness. As an actor, she directly saw the imbalance and maltreatment widespread in the industry. This lit a spark inside her to speak up against these wrongdoings and strive to make a more level playing field for all artists.
Explanation of the Hollywood Strike
Are you familiar with the concept of streaming? If not, imagine it as a disruptive force in the scriptwriting world, akin to a nagging pain you can’t shake causing competition to suffer and posing a threat to the ecosystem when not properly regulated. Recently, due to the evolving landscape of entertainment driven by streaming platforms, both writers and actors have taken a stand by going on strike.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) initiated this move by requesting its writers to vote on the authorization of a strike, which took place on April 3. On April 17, it was officially confirmed that an overwhelming 97.85 percent of members had voted in favor of the strike authorization. As the deadline for a new contract approached on May 1, the once looming threat of a writers' strike over Hollywood shifted from being on the horizon to becoming a reality.
The Impact on Film Production
The 2023 Hollywood strike is causing profound ripples in film production. Delayed productions lead to rescheduling of filming schedules and financial losses. Fewer films entering the market means fewer audience options and a hit to box office revenues and the economy at an estimated 3-billion-dollar loss to the California economy. The strike also disrupted the supply chain of film production, affecting departments like costumes, set design, and catering services.
International collaboration and co-productions may also suffer. Surprisingly, film unions from major cities around the world have joined forces to support their Hollywood counterparts. With this solidarity, filmmakers hope to improve working conditions and wages. The last Hollywood strike was in 2007-2008 and lasted 100 days, causing an estimated $2.5 billion loss for the US economy.
The overlooked consequences for the "little guy"
What gets lost in the shuffle in this fight for equality is the unsung heroes in the entertainment industry. Not every actor, writer, or industry professional has unlimited resources. Some talent relies on their ability to grind and find work the only way they can to sustain a living while practicing a craft they hold dear. “They think they're all rich, but you know, they're not. I could work on a series and then I won't have worked for a while. You know, you're going to get money taken out from your agent, your manager, taxes, all that. And then by the time you get the check, you got to pay rent, you got to pay bills, this, that, you know,” says Jon Cioffi about the difficulties of living your dream amid the strike. Cioffi has been in the film industry for more than a decade and has seen the highs and lows of the industry through his own journey. His dedication to his craft is what motivated him to move from his hometown in the Bronx to pursue his dream in Hollywood.
(Left) Evan Mack (Right) Jon Cioffi at the Red Carpet showing of “Tahanan”
Photo by Steve Escarcega
Job loss for below-the-line workers
Automation and AI are impacting white-collar jobs, but below-the-line workers are overlooked. These workers provide essential services and are at risk of losing their jobs due to automation. Their loss of employment can cause issues beyond just financial instability. It is crucial that policymakers and industry leaders recognize the value of below-the-line workers. By implementing these suggestions, we can ensure they don't get left behind. They can adapt, thrive, and continue making meaningful contributions to society and the economy.
The strike has highlighted an unequal distribution of power between major studios and smaller production companies. Critics argue it limits diversity and creativity. It has brought working conditions into the spotlight too. Long hours, unpredictable schedules, and lack of job security have been discussed for years. The strike is unique due to its timing. Technology and streaming services have challenged Hollywood's position. The strike has made the challenge greater by stopping production and leaving audiences without content. Stakeholders must come together to create a more equitable future. Open dialogue, collaborative decision-making, and addressing systemic issues are all key. This is the only way to ensure a sustainable Hollywood.
