As the SAG-AFTRA strike approaches its 100th day, the UK’s film and TV industry is grappling with significant financial challenges. The prolonged strike has halted many productions, leaving countless crew members and suppliers in a state of financial uncertainty.
Key Takeaways:
- The SAG-AFTRA strike is nearing its 100-day mark, causing severe financial distress for UK film and TV technicians.
- Even if a resolution is reached soon, full production in the UK might not resume until January due to the holiday season.
- The UK government has yet to intervene, raising concerns among industry leaders.
- Many crew members, especially those at the start of their careers, are struggling financially.
- The British Film Designers Guild (BFDG) conducted a survey revealing the dire financial situation of its members.
A Ripple Effect Across the Pond
The UK film and TV industry has been severely impacted by the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. Christopher Ross, president of the British Society of Cinematographers, highlighted the industry’s significant contribution to the UK economy and expressed concerns about its vulnerability due to disputes in other countries.
Ross, currently working in Croatia, shed light on the hardships faced by UK camera crews. The beginning of 2023 was already challenging, with fewer projects in January and February compared to 2022. Just as the industry seemed to be recovering, the strikes put a halt to many upcoming productions.
The Struggle of the Crews
Construction teams were among the first to feel the impact, even before the strikes officially began. With many projects tied to US funding or talent, the UK industry found itself in a precarious situation. Ross emphasized the ripple effect on various departments, noting that when one crew member is out of work, their entire team suffers.
Blair Barnette, chairperson of the British Film Designers Guild (BFDG), pointed out the lack of a safety net for most crew members. Many, being self-employed, were encouraged to set up as limited companies, making them ineligible for government support during the pandemic. This lack of support continues during the current crisis, forcing many to seek assistance from the Film and TV Charity.
A Glimpse into the Numbers
The BFDG’s recent survey paints a grim picture. Nearly 39% of respondents said they last worked three to four months ago, with only 16.7% currently employed. Over 21% are struggling to pay rent or mortgages, and 44.4% anticipate financial difficulties soon.
Eddie Standish of Locate Studios compared the strike’s impact to the Covid pandemic, emphasizing the UK industry’s dependency on the US. He suggested that the UK should focus more on supporting independent British productions.
Looking Ahead
While the situation is dire, there are glimpses of hope. Russell Allen from Arri Rental mentioned a surge in commercials, unaffected by the strikes. He also noted signs of productions gearing up again. However, he warned of the potential loss of skilled technicians due to the ongoing crisis.
The UK film and TV industry awaits a resolution, hoping for a swift recovery and a brighter future.
More Project Casting Entertainment News:
Studios Re-Engage with SAG-AFTRA Amid Ongoing Actors Strike
In a recent development that has caught the attention of the entertainment industry, top studio executives have returned to the negotiation table with the Scree…
Will the End of the WGA-Strike Help the Actors Strike Deal
The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are …
Post-WGA Strike: Hollywood’s Fast-Track List of TV Shows and Movies
Hollywood Studios Prioritize Key Projects Post WGA Strike: A Glimpse into the Revival In the wake of the recently concluded Writers Guild of America (WGA) strik…
