A tentative contract deal has been reached between film and TV crew members and major Hollywood studios after months of negotiations, bringing relief to the entertainment industry. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers announced the resolution on Tuesday night, prior to the expiration of the current contract.
The Hollywood Basic Agreement, covering around 50,000 craftspeople primarily in Los Angeles, spans three years and includes updates related to pay, pension and health benefits, work-life balance, job security, subcontracting, streaming residuals, and artificial intelligence. The deal also includes wage-scale increases of 7%, 4%, and 3.5% over the three-year term, as well as provisions for triple-time pay for workdays exceeding 15 hours and double-time pay for on-call employees on the seventh day of the workweek.
The terms related to artificial intelligence in the agreement ensure that no employee is required to provide AI prompts that would displace any covered employee. The deal must be ratified by the union’s membership before it can officially go into effect, with a summary set to be released in the next few days.
The negotiations between IATSE and AMPTP resumed this week after failing to close the deal in previous rounds of discussions. The agreement addresses key issues such as wages, pensions, health benefits, and other demands put forth by the union. Crew members have been campaigning for a new contract since March, seeking wage increases to keep up with inflation, enhanced benefits, and protections against rest-period violations, among other things.
The recent strikes by actors and screenwriters had a significant impact on the industry, causing production delays and affecting the livelihoods of many workers. The resolution of the contract negotiations between crew members and studios is seen as a positive step towards stabilizing the entertainment business and ensuring that workers are fairly compensated for their contributions.
As the industry continues to navigate challenges related to the pandemic and evolving production landscapes, agreements like the one reached between IATSE and major studios are crucial for maintaining a sustainable and equitable working environment for all involved. The solidarity and support shown by industry professionals, including actors, writers, directors, and producers, highlight the importance of recognizing the essential role that crew members play in bringing stories to life on screen.
While the deal signifies progress for below-the-line workers in Hollywood, other trade unions, such as Teamsters Local 399, are still in negotiations with the AMPTP to secure favorable contracts for their members. The collective efforts of industry unions, workers, and allies demonstrate a commitment to upholding fair labor practices and ensuring that all workers are treated with respect and dignity in the film and television industry.