SAG-AFTRA's Bold Stand: Transforming Filming Agreements Amid Controversy

Summary

SAG-AFTRA defends allowing independent projects during strike, believes it will create competitive pressure on AMPTP to bring strike to an end.

Restrictions apply to interim filming agreements exclusively for completely independent companies.

The emergence of independent studios as potential rivals to AMPTP could prompt earlier negotiations and offer an advantage to SAG-AFTRA in the event of a strike.

SAG-AFTRA has responded to criticism over their decision to grant interim filming agreements amidst the ongoing actors' strike against the AMPTP. The labor union has defended their stance, stating that allowing independent film companies to continue production will create competitive pressure for studios affiliated with the AMPTP. A part of SAG-AFTRA's statement is as follows:

We disagree with those who suggest that the Interim Agreement could extend the strike. Instead, we believe that the increased competition and pressure on the AMPTP, coupled with denying them their desired outcomes, will compel them to return to the negotiating table and ultimately bring an end to this strike.

We acknowledge the concern that our Interim Agreement may result in content being distributed by the struck companies. However, we have full confidence that the terms outlined in this agreement, particularly the portion addressing streaming revenue sharing, will render it impractical for these projects to be distributed through AMPTP platforms, until a comprehensive industrywide agreement has been established.

Why SAG-AFTRA Is Letting Some Projects Resume Filming

SAG-AFTRA is providing filmmakers in the independent sector with filming permissions to address the current trajectory of AMPTP studios. It has come to light that several prominent Hollywood studios, such as Netflix and Disney, are employing costly AI experts, suggesting that the AMPTP is steadfast in their intention to incorporate AI technology in upcoming films. As a result, independent studios like A24 and Angel Studios have the potential to emerge as formidable competitors to AMPTP studios, as more actors are inclined to collaborate with them on diverse projects.

The delay of shows like Silo season 2 and films like Deadpool 3 due to the strike may lead studios to negotiate with actors earlier to ensure the continuation of production for major shows and movies. Although the impact of indie films on the negotiations is uncertain, SAG-AFTRA could potentially approve any number of small projects. If their approval of indie projects and their subsequent resumption of production proves successful, SAG-AFTRA may gain an advantage in negotiations with the AMPTP.