According to reports, after a prolonged 117-day strike, Hollywood’s major studios and SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) are on the verge of resolving a dispute that has centered around the use of artificial intelligence in productions. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments:
Key Developments
- AI Language Adjustments: Studios have agreed to modify the language concerning AI in their contracts.
- Negotiation Progress: Union leaders met with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, indicating progress on AI issues.
- Streaming Residuals: Discussions include a new bonus mechanism for streaming residuals.
- Rate Increases: The studios propose what they call the largest minimum rate increase in 40 years, expected to be between 7%-8%.
- Urgency for Agreement: A deal is sought urgently to avoid further disruption to the broadcast TV schedule and film production.
Negotiation Details
The negotiations have seen the two sides inch closer to an agreement, particularly on the contentious issue of AI. The union has been working on a proposal that includes a mechanism for apportioning a new bonus in streaming residuals, where actors could receive a 100% bonus on their standard streaming residual for appearing on highly-watched shows.
Financial Aspects
The proposed deal also includes a significant increase in minimum rates, with studios offering an increase in the range of 7%-8%, which is less than the 11% SAG-AFTRA sought but more than the 5% agreed upon with other unions.
Industry Impact
The strike has had a noticeable impact on the industry, with feature films being postponed and the broadcast TV schedule at risk. The studios have emphasized the need for a swift resolution.
Looking Ahead
The union’s negotiating committee is set to review the latest terms, especially how AI consent is handled posthumously for actors. While not all items on the union’s list were addressed, the AMPTP has committed to ongoing discussions about AI until the next round of negotiations.
Conclusion
The industry watches closely as SAG-AFTRA and the studios navigate the complexities of AI in entertainment, with the potential agreement poised to set precedents for future contracts.
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