The last major Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike lasted 100 days in 2007-’08, adversely impacting TV and film production. Fast forward to today and recent developments have fueled speculation about the possibility of another walkout as the WGA’s East and West Coast boards have given a greenlight to having members vote on a strike authorization.
If members provide that authorization, the WGA would be able to call a strike if a deal cannot be reached on a new three-year contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
Strike authorization voting will be conducted online and at special membership meetings in mid-April, with the current contract deadline of May 1 looming.
Negotiations between the WGA and AMPTP recently broke off after two weeks of talks. Yesterday the AMPTP formally invited the WGA back to the bargaining table. And now contract talks are set to resume on April 10. Among the key issues are residuals related to streaming platforms, reportedly declining wages in TV over the past three years, and funding of the Guild’s healthcare and pension plans
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More