Los Angeles: Union members representing camera operators, make-up artists and other behind-the-scenes workers in Hollywood movies and television shows have voted vigorously to authorize a strike if they do not settle with producers on new contracts. said on Monday.
The International Alliance of Stage Theatrical Employees (IATSE), which represents about 60,000 workers, including sound editors and hair artists, said in a statement that 90% of its members cast ballots and more than 98% of votes were returned. . In favor of strike.
The vote does not mean that there will be a walk-out, but it strengthens the hand of IATSE leaders in talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
“I hope the studio will see and understand our members’ resolve,” IATSE president Matthew Loeb said in a statement. “If they want to avoid the strike, they will return to the bargaining table and make a reasonable offer to us.”
“Our people have basic human needs such as time for meal breaks, enough sleep, and weekends,” Loeb said.
The union is seeking to reduce working hours which can increase to around 14 hours a day as demand for TV shows and movies has increased, especially for streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+ and Amazon Video. .
It also wants increases for workers working on streaming projects, who get paid less for working in mainstream and cable TV shows, under an agreement signed in 2009, when streaming and online media was in its infancy.
AMPTP said in a statement that it is “committed to reaching an agreement that will keep the industry working” but said it would require both parties to “show a willingness to compromise and explore new solutions”.
The last major strikes in Hollywood were by film and television screenwriters in late 2007 and early 2008. This went on for three months and stopped all scripted shows and forced television networks to re-telecast comedies and plays.
AMPTP has offered to improve rest periods between projects and increase wage rates for crew members working on streaming shows, but rates will still be below mainstream productions.
IATSE has garnered the support of powerful Hollywood unions representing actors, directors and writers. Actors Ben Stiller, Danny DeVito, Brie Larson, Seth Rogen and Kevin Bacon are among those who have sent messages supporting its demands.
“They carry sets, equipment, designs all the time in every season. They are 1 in and last out. They are owed living wages and hours, and we are indebted to their unwavering support. Without them, there is no show, “Law & Order: SVU” actress Mariska Hargitay tweeted.
read all breaking news, breaking news And coronavirus news Here. follow us on Facebook, Twitter And Wire.