Studio negotiators and the largest union representing Hollywood film crews have been engaged in negotiations for nearly a month, with the aim of addressing a myriad of issues before the contract between the studios and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) expires on July 31. The bargaining schedule, spanning an unusually long period, is intended to allow for thorough discussions on minor matters, fostering goodwill and reducing the likelihood of a disruptive strike this summer.
While some progress has been made, including tentative agreements with six local IATSE unions, the most significant issues remain unresolved and are not expected to be tackled until June. The potential strike by IATSE, along with other “Basic Crafts” unions such as Teamsters Local 399, could halt production in an industry still recovering from previous strikes in 2023.
Negotiators are proceeding cautiously, setting aside five weeks for “local negotiations” with each of the 13 IATSE locals on the West Coast. So far, agreements have been reached with various crafts, covering specific issues relevant to each, such as staffing levels, safety concerns, and technological advancements.
The negotiations come after a challenging period during the pandemic, when talks in 2021 nearly resulted in a strike, highlighting the importance of addressing member concerns effectively. Both IATSE and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are taking steps to facilitate productive discussions, including allowing greater member input and setting up simultaneous negotiations.
Once the West Coast local negotiations conclude, attention will turn to the Area Standards Agreement, which covers IATSE locals nationwide. Only then will talks focus on the Basic Agreement, addressing key issues such as artificial intelligence, wage increases, and pension and health plan shortfalls.
While incremental agreements along the way may pave the path to an overall settlement, both sides remain committed to reaching a mutually beneficial deal, recognizing the importance of maintaining labor peace in the industry.
