GENERAL DISCUSSIONS

WGA Writers' Strike

POSTED BY: RAYCHEETAH
UPDATED: Thursday, February 28, 2008 06:10
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Tuesday, October 30, 2007 11:03 AM

RAYCHEETAH


There is likely gonna be a WGA (Writers' Guild of America) strike, either the end of this month, or, they might postpone their strike to synchronize with the SAG (Screen Actors' Guild) strike which is likely to occur at the end of June. That means that the TV/motion picture industry will likely come to a standstill for the duration of the negotiations, possibly for months.

For those interested in more information, here's a link to a very good, easy-to-understand article about the possible effects, over time, of a writers' strike:

http://origin1.contracostatimes.com/search/ci_7320188


ETA: Well, that link worked... For a while. Apparently, you now need to register to read it. Sorry about that. I'm just gonna post the body of the article, below.

New shows, like Moonlight, Pushing Daisies, and, so forth, would be at particular peril, in the event of a strike and long-term hiatus.

Also, see the very informative discussions of this on the Sci-Fi.com BSG board; the poster (of both the following threads), Mrs. Ron, is the wife of Ron Moore, the fellow behind the current Battlestar Galactica:

http://forums.scifi.com/index.php?showtopic=2289490

and

http://forums.scifi.com/index.php?showtopic=2289791&pid=4315328&st=0&#
entry4315328


The gist of this is that, unless you are a member of the WGA, you will not be able to get your work produced for TV or movies in Hollywood. Scabs, i.e., those who work "across the picket lines" are ill-regarded by the unions, not only the WGA, but, the SAG, and, related "shops," (electricians and costumers, for example) as well. If you write for a program during the strike, for example, when the strike is over, you will not only no longer be able to obtain work (under any active agreement), you will also never be able to get a union membership, in order to get work.

Sure, you can write anything you want, but, membership with the union prohibits absolutely presenting it to a studio for use or consideration during the strike. As for writers in foreign countries who do not hold WGA memberships, there is usually a corresponding and reciprocal agreement with the equivalent organizations in their countries. Again, any foreign scabbing is likely to result in the crippling of a career within the Hollywood entertainment industry, as well as related fields.

So, for several months, no production work will get done on any projects to be filmed. No writers on set to tweak their scripts, no new scripts, no creative production for those media of any kind. The crux of the issue is that the unions feel that the industry (the studios), which works under a universally-binding contract, is trying to cut out most if not all residuals for writers, including preventing the writers from benefiting at all from alternative media, such as online webcasts. There may be other issues, as well.

The industry counters that it has presented reasonable and balanced proposals, which the union has turned down flat as unsatisfactory, and, that the call to strike is a standard operational procedure, when the contract is up.

That's just this layman's inexpert understanding of it. I strongly urge you to visit the links, above, for more details.

-Raycheetah ='[.]'=

The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



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Tuesday, October 30, 2007 11:06 AM

RAYCHEETAH


CHUCK BARNEY: AS SEEN ON TV

Writers' strike will turn off many viewers

Contra Costa Times

Article Launched: 10/30/2007 03:01:32 AM PDT

Having long seen themselves as second-class citizens in Hollywood , television and movie writers are as mad as hell, and they're not going to take it anymore. And now they're prepared to deliver a script that no one wants to see.

Unless the Writers Guild of America can quickly resolve its bitter differences with studios and networks, it could order its members to go on strike any time after Halloween -- the day its labor contract expires. Such a gloomy scenario has the potential to leave Tinseltown in chaos and television and movie fans out in the cold.

Come early next year, our TV sets might be spewing forth -- shudder -- mostly reruns, game shows and even more cheap knockoffs of "American Idol." And that new show you just got hooked on? Don't count on it surviving a lengthy hiatus.

Moviegoers, meanwhile, eventually would be left with a much shorter list of new films to peruse.

After taking the weekend and Monday off, WGA negotiators are scheduled to resume talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, or AMPTP, today in Southern California . Meetings thus far have been so unproductive and rancorous that a federal mediator has stepped in to referee.

The most divisive issue is pegged to a long-brewing battle over residual payments for digital media -- downloads of TV shows and movies. The writers want a cut of these new and evolving platforms. Producers, however, prefer to hold off to see how things shake out.

Neither side wants a work stoppage, especially now that the TV networks are bleeding viewers, and so many other entertainment options are available to seduce us. But the writers, who believe they have been given short shrift in past deals, clearly are bracing for a bloody throw-down.

Still, the labor issues don't matter much to those of us who just want to see how "Heroes" plays out or laugh ourselves silly at a Will Ferrell movie. With that in mind, here is a rundown on how a strike could affect audiences:

Late-night laughs dry up: Under a strike scenario, the first to be hit would be fans of late-night TV shows, which are produced on a same-day basis. As funny as they might be, Conan O'Brien and Jon Stewart don't write their own stuff, and they are not about to start.

Networks might choose to put their late-night shows into reruns or air them as interview-heavy programs that eschew comedy sketches. Plan your bedtimes accordingly.

Stay tuned -- for now: If the writers do walk, you won't be left staring at a test pattern just yet because scripted comedies, dramas and daytime soaps are filmed several weeks ahead of time and stockpiled to a point.

But fresh episodes of "The Office," "CSI" and others would only last through February sweeps at the latest. Beyond that, things could get dicey, depending on the length of a walkout. YouTube, anyone?

Lights, camera, inaction: It would take movie fans a bit longer to experience the fallout from the strike because most Hollywood productions planned for the next few months are already in the can.

But if a walkout lingered, the flow of films eventually would slow to a trickle. In that case, expect to see more documentaries on the big screen and possibly even more foreign films than usual.

Jack Bauer to the rescue? Some shows, such as Fox's action-thriller "24," already are pegged for a midseason debut, and thus will have a run of new episodes ready to roll out next year. Other shows in the same category include "Lost," "Law & Order," "Medium" and "Jericho," as well as some new series such as "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles."

Fall's freshman crop could spoil: At least the established TV shows have had time to build a loyal following that theoretically would return to the fold once a strike ends. But what about new shows such as "Pushing Daisies"? If they disappear for any length of time, it could be a case of out of sight, out of mind and a struggle for survival.

Prime time's new reality: Unscripted shows such as "American Idol" and "Survivor" are not subject to the WGA contract and would be unaffected by a work stoppage. So if you are dismayed with the amount of reality shows on the air now, prepare to get really fed up.

In addition, expect to see more of Howie Mandel and Bob Costas as game shows and sports events should abound. Airings of newsmagazines also might increase. It's a genre that networks heavily relied on in 1988, when a five-month writers' walkout crippled the TV industry.

How likely is a strike this time around? Very likely, judging from the dismal talk circulating in Hollywood over the past few weeks. But if negotiators make some progress today, writers might agree to continue working for a while under terms of the expired deal.

Still, it might be wise to start filling your DVRs to the brim. All the better to steel yourself against what could be a long, chilly TV season.

Reach Chuck Barney at 925-952-2685 or cbarney@bayareanewsgroup.com. Also, check out his daily blog at http://cctextra.com/blogs/tvfreak.

-Raycheetah ='[.]'=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



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Tuesday, October 30, 2007 12:28 PM

GORRAMGROUPIE


MORE reality TV? Ugh. Kill me now. Even more reasons to subscribe to Netflix and online media distributers.



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Tuesday, October 30, 2007 1:35 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Could always read some good books...

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



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Saturday, November 3, 2007 6:28 PM

ADAPA


It's my understanding Joss will honor the strike which means no Dollhouse etc....

the strike is set for 12.01am Monday Nov 5th.

The teamsters will most likely honor the picket line. the SAG(actors) can't strike until June but will walk the line in support.
A few interesting links;

"Pencils Down Means Pencils Down"
Look over all the writers/shows who signed this--
http://www.wga.org/subpage_member.aspx?id=2529

"Heroes of the Writers Strike"



THE SHORT VERSION --
Or, what the heck do those crazy writers want, anyway?
http://www.unitedhollywood.com/2007...rt-version.html

Mark Evanier's pages
http://www.newsfromme.com/
JMS's pages
http://jmsnews.com/home.aspx


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Saturday, November 3, 2007 7:50 PM

REGINAROADIE


While I would hate for a truncated season of TV, it would give me time to get through the stack of DVD's that's been accumulating on my coffee table for four years now, as well as the countless hours of stuff I've downloaded.

**************************************************
"And it starts with a sentence that might last a lifetime, or it all might just go down in flames. If I let you know me, then why would you want me? Each day I don't is a shame. Each day I don't is a great shame."

Loudon Wainwright III - "Strange Weirdos" off the "Knocked Up" soundtrack

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Saturday, November 3, 2007 7:59 PM

SHAMELESS


How long do you reckon this will last? And - a VERY selfish question - will this affect Burn Notice's summer 2008 return?!?!?
Toldja it was selfish. Good for the writers. I honestly never cared about them until Joss made it clear how much they matter and until this strike. Now I can see how much they make or break a show.

------------------------------------------
RPG launcher bought in third world country illegally - $10
Landmines - $50 per
Attack/track dogs bred 1st class - $250-500 per
Highpowered assault rifles - $600 per
The look on your face when I show up on your doorstep with a bigfoot - ... Priceless

"You gotta love that the first pirated HD DVD is the one about space pirates who broadcast a video that the government wants to keep secret.

Can't stop the signal."
-reavers_ate_my_dvd

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Saturday, November 3, 2007 8:04 PM

CHINDI


Last time the Writers struck, the strike lasted 5 months... **IF** it were to go that long, we would probably lose a lot of the newer, unestablished shows...

ITA more reality and endless re runs sounds very unappealing... BUT... I sense a potential silver lining here....


time to dig out that spare set of Firefly DVDs.. when all you friends are bitching about nothing being on...loan them a few nights of bliss in the form of the best TV show ever was... could be we will get a bunch of new recruits!!!

Chindi

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Saturday, November 3, 2007 8:08 PM

SHAMELESS


Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
Late-night laughs dry up: Under a strike scenario, the first to be hit would be fans of late-night TV shows, which are produced on a same-day basis. As funny as they might be, Conan O'Brien and Jon Stewart don't write their own stuff, and they are not about to start.



Pssst: Check this out.

"The WGA has met with the writers of both The Daily Show and The Colbert Report, according to Michael Winship, president of the WGA East, and “everybody is very clear on what our position is.”

Stewart, who earlier this month extended his contract with Comedy Central to 2010, is not only host The Daily Show, but is one of its writers, as well as executive producer.

“Jon and Stephen [Colbert] are both members of the Writers Guild,” Winship said. “They both write for their shows under the Writers Guild contract. So our position on that is that they could not do any of the work that they normally do as a Writers Guild member in terms of writing and performing material on the show.”"

From http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6494884.html

Looks like he is a writer. But he's on strike. Knew he was too funny not to come up with SOME of his own stuff - his impromptu stuff is brilliant, I mean, those interviews can't be THAT scripted. Y'know?

------------------------------------------
RPG launcher bought in third world country illegally - $10
Landmines - $50 per
Attack/track dogs bred 1st class - $250-500 per
Highpowered assault rifles - $600 per
The look on your face when I show up on your doorstep with a bigfoot - ... Priceless

"You gotta love that the first pirated HD DVD is the one about space pirates who broadcast a video that the government wants to keep secret.

Can't stop the signal."
-reavers_ate_my_dvd

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 4:15 AM

WALTZING


Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
Could always read some good books...



Hear hear! As much as I enjoy TV and especially the idea of a new series from Joss, there's a lot to be said about reading. Pick up the Serenity comic book, or any of the millions of awesome sci fi books out there. Or any other genre for that matter. (Can you tell I'm a book nerd yet?) There's so much out there....

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 5:31 AM

SHUKES


I do worry for Pushing Daisies, i've fallen quite hard for this show as it is so sweet,funny and clever. If i lose another great show for whatever reason i will be furious, its happened too many times already!

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 7:38 AM

OPTIMUS1998


depending on how long this strike goes, maybe the networks could use this as an opportunity to "clean out their closets" so to speak. re-air some short-lived shows, possibly air some episodes they promised to air, pushed back 2 or 3 times, and then dumped on the internet......(if you couldn't tell i'm referring specifically to drive here)

Hell fox alone has enough shows that fit in that category they could have a month or 2 of scheduling,

Make Cartoons, Not War
- Sue Blu
Well played, Clerks...
- Leonardo Leonardo(Clerks Cartoon)

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 8:59 AM

EMBERS


Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
Could always read some good books...

-Raycheetah


the studios and networks have treated the writers like dirt for decades, and the writers had little recourse so long as 'reality' TV was so popular (got good ratings and sold lots of advertising).

But now FINALLY scripted TV is back, and the advertisers want to sell their stuff on Lost, Heroes, Ugly Betty, etc...
and finally the writers can make the studios and networks stop and listen to them.

Personally I expect the strike to be pretty short, I think the writers' demands will be met sooner rather than later, because the fact is that their work produces millions of dollars for the studios and networks!

So I will be reading more, and listening to Doctor Who audio plays, and watching DVDs (time to watch Firefly again from the beginning!).

But then I always support the Union!


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Sunday, November 4, 2007 1:41 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by embers:
Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
Could always read some good books...

-Raycheetah


the studios and networks have treated the writers like dirt for decades, and the writers had little recourse so long as 'reality' TV was so popular (got good ratings and sold lots of advertising).

But now FINALLY scripted TV is back, and the advertisers want to sell their stuff on Lost, Heroes, Ugly Betty, etc...
and finally the writers can make the studios and networks stop and listen to them.

Personally I expect the strike to be pretty short, I think the writers' demands will be met sooner rather than later, because the fact is that their work produces millions of dollars for the studios and networks!

So I will be reading more, and listening to Doctor Who audio plays, and watching DVDs (time to watch Firefly again from the beginning!).

But then I always support the Union!

]



I agree. The arguments made by the studios for not negotiating a percentage of residuals for the digital/internet display of programs is pretty weak. To paraphrase one writer, "If the studios, as they claim, make nothing off these media, then, why not pay us 2.5% of that nothing?"

I also hope you're right, Embers; 'cause, if this thing DOES run long, I doubt anybody's gonna end up happy. The writers have to eat, make house payments, and, all the rest of the things for which working folk have to pay. They will have to endure what amounts to unemployment for whatever the duration of the strike, and, face significant hardships, as individuals.

The studios may lose up to an estimated 1 billion dollars, if the strike runs as long as the 1988 strike, i.e., 5 months. That means a substantial impact on their collective bottom line, and, could hamper their ability to recover quickly, once this is resolved. Too, there are folks outside the WGA whose livelihood will be affected by a work stoppage, and, that group includes folks who aren't even otherwise involved directly in the talks.

Does anyone know if this will have any effect on stand-up comedians or ad writers? If not, we may see a LOT more stand-up, including ventriloquism ( Jeffdunham.com !), and, advertisements may become the new entertainment on TV.

We'll just have to see... Now, where did I put my library card?

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 1:59 PM

EMBERS


I'm not sure about ad writers, I don't think so, but I don't know....
I don't think it does effect most stand up comedians because although they do write their own material, they don't join the union unless they end up writing material for other people....

It definitely effects David Letterman, Jon Stewart, and Stephen Colbert because they are credited as writers on their own shows...
here is Jon on the subject:






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Sunday, November 4, 2007 2:48 PM

NCBROWNCOAT


What about Craig Ferguson? Nathan is scheduled to appear Thursday night.

I know CF does a VERY impromptu monologue (the best IMHO, if you can stay up that late) and some skits.

http://fireflyfaninnc.livejournal.com/









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Sunday, November 4, 2007 4:11 PM

CYBERSNARK


Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
To paraphrase one writer, "If the studios, as they claim, make nothing off these media, then, why not pay us 2.5% of that nothing?"

JAYNE: Let me do the math here. . .

-----
We applied the cortical electrodes but were unable to get a neural reaction from either patient.

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 4:23 PM

FOLLOWMAL


Quote:

Originally posted by ncbrowncoat:
What about Craig Ferguson? Nathan is scheduled to appear Thursday night.

I know CF does a VERY impromptu monologue (the best IMHO, if you can stay up that late) and some skits.



Sounds like from what Embers said though that if he's credited as a writer on his own show, he'll be affected too. Eeep. I hope not.

*checks purse to see if library card is in order*

*checks list of DVD sets she wants to watch long term and makes a note to write her Mom to tell her to dig out some good ones too*


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Sunday, November 4, 2007 4:31 PM

NCBROWNCOAT


Quote:

Originally posted by FollowMal:
Quote:

Originally posted by ncbrowncoat:
What about Craig Ferguson? Nathan is scheduled to appear Thursday night.

I know CF does a VERY impromptu monologue (the best IMHO, if you can stay up that late) and some skits.



Sounds like from what Embers said though that if he's credited as a writer on his own show, he'll be affected too. Eeep. I hope not.

*checks purse to see if library card is in order*

*checks list of DVD sets she wants to watch long term and makes a note to write her Mom to tell her to dig out some good ones too*

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f336/foll


owmal/Banners/writersstrikesupporticon.jpg



Thanks FM. I hope the strike is settled before Wednesday (the day the show is taped).

*checks stack of DVD's to see if any besides Firefly and Serenity are worth watching over again.*

http://fireflyfaninnc.livejournal.com/









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Sunday, November 4, 2007 4:37 PM

FOLLOWMAL




You're welcome NCB.

May I make some suggestions?

BSG ( all the seasons! which I'm sure I'll get disagreement about, lol ) are excellent. The new one, of course. Joss isn't kidding when he says it's good.

SG-1 is still fun to watch and so is SG- Atlantis.
I recently purchased the first season of Quantum Leap, it's fun. :-) Oh I know... Farscape is another show I've been meaning to catch up on.

Also, if you've not tried it, the new show Moonlight is excellent, Angel comparisons not withstanding, it's quickly becoming my favorite new show along with Life.

I watch them on the sites- meaning CBS actually in this case.


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Sunday, November 4, 2007 6:28 PM

ADAPA


Last min. talks today (sun nov 4th) with ER ex producer & former Wga pres.

fingers crosed

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Sunday, November 4, 2007 6:42 PM

STOWEAWAY


I'm trying to be optimistic here. Perhaps a strike would mean Craig Ferguson would be forced to switch to an interview-only format.
Instead of a 6 minute anecdote from our Captain, we might get a good 15 minutes or so.
Oh well, a girl can hope, right?

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Monday, November 5, 2007 8:56 AM

DERANGEDMILK




"Storms getting worse."
"We'll pass through it soon enough."

Vote for Firefly at http://richlabonte.net/tvvote/index.html

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Monday, November 5, 2007 11:04 AM

SAB39


Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
( Jeffdunham.com !)


Don't you mean Je-fuh-fuh. Dun HAM. Dot com! ?



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Monday, November 5, 2007 11:10 AM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by sab39:
Quote:

Originally posted by Raycheetah:
( Jeffdunham.com !)


Don't you mean Je-fuh-fuh. Dun HAM. Dot com! ?





Peanut? Is that YOU?!


-Raycheetah =^[.]~=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Monday, November 5, 2007 11:12 AM

SAB39


Hey hey look at all the other people on this thread. Nyeeeeeeeeeowwww!



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Monday, November 5, 2007 11:15 AM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by sab39:
Hey hey look at all the other people on this thread. Nyeeeeeeeeeowwww!





Must be Peanut... Knows how to spell "Nwe... Neyaw..." *waves hand over top of head.*

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Monday, November 5, 2007 5:15 PM

NCBROWNCOAT


Quote:

Originally posted by Stoweaway:
I'm trying to be optimistic here. Perhaps a strike would mean Craig Ferguson would be forced to switch to an interview-only format.
Instead of a 6 minute anecdote from our Captain, we might get a good 15 minutes or so.
Oh well, a girl can hope, right?



Hate to tell you that ALL the late night talkers have cancelled new shows for this week at least. We'll get reruns of Jay, David, Conan and Craig.

Also no Jon Stewart or Steven Colbert.

http://fireflyfaninnc.livejournal.com/









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Monday, November 5, 2007 11:20 PM

EMMAZULE


If the strikes goes on for a while, the only good thing I can think of, is eventually we'll run out of reruns to fill the 1-2 hours on Saturdays at gramma's, and my family can finally finish watching the fourth season of Buffy, and maybe even watch the first season of Angel (we've already burned through Wonderfalls and Firefly and Serenity. I've still got Heroes Season 1, TC complete series, and most of Buffy and Angel on DVD left that they haven't seen though, so we're set). Dollhouse might end up delayed, but since it's not aired yet, it'll probably be slightly safer than Pushing Daisies. My only real concern is Chuck, which is a hilarious series that's only JUST gotten going. Medium and Heroes will probably be fine, because they're addictive. And BBC America won't be affected enough to hurt me, because most of what I'm watching on there is reruns of Doctor Who, Torchwood and Hotel Babylon - stuff that's long since filmed and is technically a rerun, just not necessarily in the same country of origin.

I wonder if Matt and Trey Parker were able to churn out a SP episode before the strike? They write their stuff, they're probably in the WGA.

I suspect Comedy Central will be playing a LOT of old comedy specials and movies for a while. SciFi Channel will probably be OK, as most of their stuff is back catalog to begin with. Mmmm... maybe more Firefly marathons!

Still, I do hope it blows over more quickly, so Heroes doesn't have to stick with the quicky ending instead of a proper lead-in to the next chapter...

~Emma

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Tuesday, November 6, 2007 10:28 PM

JEWELSTAITEFAN


Does anybody know the gist of the issues at stake?

I'd heard it was just for more money. However, other comments, including from Joss, indicated it was more, something like a change in formula or structure of pay, between up-front and residual.
Anybody know?
Are they trying to give up more up-front pay to get more residual/royalty/right/profit-based pay?
Or do they just want same up=front pay plus more after-pay?

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 1:58 AM

WYTCHCROFT


while i support the strike 100%
i can't help but notice the only people affected in the recent hack attack here were - the writers...

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 2:35 AM

JONGSSTRAW


It's pretty sad & pathetic that mega-million dollar "talents" like Leno & Lettreman NEED writers for a 5 minute monologue & show of celebrity interviews. Don't they have any talent on their own? You need writers to interview people? They can't write funny stuff on their own for a 2 minute opening?....hell, FF Fans do it every day. Hollywood is chock-full of airheads and charlatans.

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 4:18 AM

SAB39


Quote:

Originally posted by jewelstaitefan:
Does anybody know the gist of the issues at stake?

I'd heard it was just for more money. However, other comments, including from Joss, indicated it was more, something like a change in formula or structure of pay, between up-front and residual.
Anybody know?


The way I understand it, today they get pennies off DVD sales and nothing at all off internet distribution.

Since DVD distribution is already a huge part of TV and movie revenues, and growing, and internet distribution is going to go up massively in the future, that's a pretty unfair state of affairs.

In a lot of other strikes I've felt that unions were being pretty unrealistic in their demands; in this case I think that the current situation is ridiculous and it's insane that the studios haven't fixed it without a strike being needed.



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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 5:10 AM

KC5F


Quote:

It's pretty sad & pathetic that mega-million dollar "talents" like Leno & Letterman NEED writers for a 5 minute monologue & show of celebrity interviews. Don't they have any talent on their own?


Some portion of it is also not wanting to cross the picket lines. SAG has its own contract negotiations coming up in June, and they want the same benefits WGA gets, too. Not sure if Jay, Dave, etc are SAG members, but they probably want to at least support their friends and soworkers in WGA. And hey, they're getting paid for their time off, too!

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 5:13 AM

GWEK


Quote:

Originally posted by jewelstaitefan:
Does anybody know the gist of the issues at stake?

I'd heard it was just for more money. However, other comments, including from Joss, indicated it was more, something like a change in formula or structure of pay, between up-front and residual.
Anybody know?
Are they trying to give up more up-front pay to get more residual/royalty/right/profit-based pay?
Or do they just want same up=front pay plus more after-pay?



Way I understand it, in broad strokes, is that the mass media industry has changed a lot in the past few years (DVD rentals and sales, internet-only content, existing content appearing on the internet, etc) and the current contract with the WGA does not take any of that into consideration.

The counterargument is basically that this is such a new paradigm--and STILL evolving--that it's impossible to put a fair value on it.

Which is ludicrous. It's basically the studios saying "We're not sure yet how much more you should be making, so until we can figure it out, we're just gonna keep everything."

For those who are interested, you can find a copy of the contract statement here:

http://www.wga.org/subpage_newsevents.aspx?id=2539



www.stillflying.net: "Here's how it might have been..."

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 5:17 AM

CHRISISALL


This from Dollverse:
Quote:

FROM THE FRONT LINES!
Written by Joss (on Whedonesque.com)
Tuesday, 06 November 2007
Sick as a dog but proud as a noble and much healthier dog, I made my way to the picket lines outside of Fox studios today. I’m really glad I did. In addition to carrying the banner, it was a chance to talk with other writers, get more perspectives and more information about what’s happening, and to see a surprising number of old friends. David Fury and Mere Smith were there, as well as many non-mutant enemies that I know. We were all caught in that giddy first burst of solidarity and fear. Nobody thinks this is going to be easy. But everybody there knows that, as things stand, it has to be.

A particularly gratifying and unexpected sight was that of Aly and Alexis, along with Cobie Smulders, marching shoulder to shoulder with the HIMYM scribes. Aly and Alexis even brought boxes of candy bars to hand out to the flagging marchers (actually, I was the only one who appeared to be flagging – even the pregnant writer outlasted me). Mere told me young Boreanaz had also been there earlier that day. I was really touched, but my actor-friends were very matter-of-fact about the whole thing. They understand that the issues at hand affect the future of the entire creative community here, and that the writers, by virtue of being first, will set a precedent that affects all the guilds. That is why we writers have to be firm, intractable and absolute in our dedication to getting a fair deal. And that’s all we’re talking about: a fair deal. For us, and for generations of artists to come.

Sounds pretty damn pompous, no? “Generations to come…”? Yeesh. But it’s true. Our culture, our government, our corporate structures have all gotten pretty used to taking care of ourselves at the expense of our children and their children. Part of this is simple greed, part is immediate practicality trumping long-view perspective, and part is perfectly understandable fear. It’s easier to take what you’e given, not protest, not make a fuss. A lot of people will suffer grievously if this strike isn’t quickly resolved, and the men and women who voted for it know that. But like so many things – our eco-system being the most obvious – if we don’t make it work now, what’s to come will be much worse.

Let me be clear on one point: I know I have it easy. I’ve done well, and I’m grateful that I can weather a long winter. Compared to what the studios have made off me my share is tiny and cute, but I’m in no position to complain. But take that differential, apply it to someone who’s just getting by when they deserve better. Now take it and… well, just take it, ‘cause when it comes to the internet and the emerging media there’s nothing there for the artists. There’s no precedent; these media didn’t exist the last time a contract was negotiated. We’re not just talking about an unfair deal, we’re talking about no deal at all. Four cents from the sale of a DVD (the standing WGA deal) sounds exactly as paltry as it is, but in a decade DVD may have gone the way of the eight-track. We have to protect the rights of the people who tell the stories, however they’re told. I’m never gonna be as articulate as Shawn or Brian (both of whom have been linked here, I believe), but I am just as committed. And a lot phlegmier.

I don’t think of the studio heads as a bunch of grinning tycoons sitting in a smoke-filled club and drumming their fingers like Montgomery Burns. I know some of those guys. I think they’re worried about the future as much as anyone. But they are beholden to their corporations, and that inevitably causes entrenchment and shortsightedness. They can’t afford that. This is an era of change, and for the giant conglomo-tainment empires, it will either be the Renaissance or the Ice Age. Because we will not stand down. Writers can be replaced, as we are constantly reminded. But so can companies. Power is on the move, and though in this town it’s been hoarded by very few, there are other companies with newer ideas about how to make money off of – or possibly, wonderfully, with – the story-tellers. Personally, I like things almost the way they are. I truly hope the executives negotiating for the AMPTP make the few simple concessions that will allow us to work with them again. I want to work. I have this idea, for a show about a girl… I even have the actress for it. And if we strike effectively, maybe she won’t have to.

I honestly started this post because of Aly and Alexis and their candy bars. But… well… there’s a lot going on. Huge props to the pizza people. Your support during this strike means more than I can express. (Note to self: picket near Jane.) I hope it won’t be long. I watched my Father strike, back in ’88. It was hard. But I was proud. I’m proud now.

Sincerely, -joss.



Link-y Chrisisall

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 5:22 AM

GWEK


Quote:

Originally posted by Jongsstraw:
It's pretty sad & pathetic that mega-million dollar "talents" like Leno & Lettreman NEED writers for a 5 minute monologue & show of celebrity interviews. Don't they have any talent on their own? You need writers to interview people? They can't write funny stuff on their own for a 2 minute opening?....hell, FF Fans do it every day. Hollywood is chock-full of airheads and charlatans.



Hey, don't disss these folks. As KC5F says, they're supporting their fellow creative types. I'm sure these guys COULD go on, but that would basically be viewed as siding with the opposition.

As for them needing writers... gorram skippy they do! To be consistently funny for a large audience is probably one of the toughest jobs in entertainment. Sure, we can throw stuff around here and amuse ourselves, but writing PROFESSIONALLY is both a science and an artform that requires rewrites, edits, revisions, and, in a case like a late night talk show or something like SNL, a lot of tossing around of ideas.

Consider that a standup comedian will often spend weeks or even MONTHS refining a one hour routine to perfect it. Someone like Leno or Letterman is putting out more than twice that a week.


www.stillflying.net: "Here's how it might have been..."

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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 8:26 PM

RAYCHEETAH


I see the studio heads as bein' akin to Patience:

"I have a rule. I never let go of money I don't have to."

Which is why they're runnin' things, and, the writers are still in their dinky, little jobs, sniffing for scraps.

That needs to change.

As Mal told Patience,

"I do the job. And then I get paid."

Wish I was close enough to drop the picketers by some pizzas and candy bars.

-Raycheetah ='[.]'=


The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Thursday, November 8, 2007 9:04 AM

MICJWELCH


Found Joss's name on this. (Sorry, I know it's huge...)





"We may experience some slight turbulence, and then... explode."

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Thursday, November 8, 2007 9:23 AM

WHISPER


Quote:

Originally posted by jewelstaitefan:
Does anybody know the gist of the issues at stake?

I'd heard it was just for more money. However, other comments, including from Joss, indicated it was more, something like a change in formula or structure of pay, between up-front and residual.
Anybody know?
Are they trying to give up more up-front pay to get more residual/royalty/right/profit-based pay?
Or do they just want same up=front pay plus more after-pay?



Here is a video posted on youtube from the WGA explaining it all very nicely.


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Thursday, November 8, 2007 9:31 AM

RAYCHEETAH


Whoah, MicJWelch!

No need to apologize; that's pretty gorram shiny!

Lotsa big names on that list: Mel Brooks, Harlan Ellison, Lawrence Kasdan...

Kinda reminds you that, while we don't know mosta the studio big-wigs, THESE are the names we KNOW that make Hollywood for US.

Let's give 'em all our support!

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 1:55 PM

RAYCHEETAH


The Governator weighs in on the WGA strike:

http://tv.yahoo.com/show/28479/news/urn:newsml:tv.reuters.com:20071109
:screenwriters_strike_dc__ER


Arnie to the rescue!

-Raycheetah =@[.]@=

The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.

http://fans4writers.com/ support the WGA writers strike



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 2:08 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Okay, mad-scientist post transplant ("The Thread From Another Forum!"):

[quote name='Raycheetah' date='Nov 8 2007, 12:02 AM' post='4472509']
Y'know, the whole strike thing raises a question for us Browncoats, a question of priorities.

On another thread [on the original forum] there is discussion, which I had initially enthusiastically endorsed, about seeing if Universal might be able to get their license for Firefly extended to their sister Network, NBC. The reasoning was, if, by any chance, NBC aired the 14 episodes of Firefly, in front of an audience which might not otherwise have seen it, it would be a boost for the fandom.

Aside from the debatability of the notion (hey, crazier things have worked), it kinda runs counter to the idea of supporting the writers in their strike. Much as I might wish to take advantage of the opportunity to capitalize on the situation, it ain't the right thing to do.

There're also a lot of folks who are posting Wavecards asking Universal for a sequel. We could do that after the strike, as easily as now. This ain't the time to be askin' the studios for anything, not if we respect what Joss is sayin' about the strike, not if we respect what's right and fair for the rest of the folks who create what we enthuse over.

It's pens down for the writers. I think it oughtta be pens down for us Browncoats, 'cept what we write in support of the strike, too.

-Raycheetah ='[.]'=




[quote name='Raycheetah' date='Nov 11 2007, 09:40 AM' post='4488457']
In answer to your questions as raised on another thread, Narien, my position is that, anything we watch on TV (yeah, I know, the networks can't monitor us all) during the strike still supports the networks, since they can base their ad revenues on viewership of any gorram thing they air, so long as they get ratings. New shows, old shows... Also, new movies (OUCH!). Anything which drives studio revenues (including webcasts of TV shows; they have ads on those, too, and, can likely track the usage better than TV) helps perpetuate the situation.

We strangle the revenues, we hasten the time at which the studios have to go back to the table.

Sadly, this also extends to new DVD purchases, and, to licensed merchandise, like the Serenity Wavecards. As a licensed product, they are a small but real part of the revenue stream. Also, at this point, going to Universal (or, NBC), cunning hats in our hands, asking for largesse is exactly opposite the hard-line stance of supporting the WGA. I know, we have such a small impact. But, it IS an impact. If Uni/NBC sees us asking pretty please, they can be confident that we're not boycotting them.

And, I keep coming back to what Joss has said and done. Would even Joss want us to be askin' the "other side" for more Firefly/Serenity, right now? Or, would he prefer our support and solidarity, as Browncoats? We wield substantial power as a fandom; I feel that it is time to wield it on Joss' behalf, along with all the other writers who are striking for their futures, not for what we want.

I'm not on the lines, carryin' a sign, but, I can still picket.

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=




[quote name='Sephiroth144' date='Nov 11 2007, 06:35 PM' post='4490318']
Exactly!

And, speaking as someone who IS on the lines carrying a sign, thank you- we WILL do the impossible with your help, and that will make US all mighty...



Just to add some salient points, without having to re-type every gorram word...


-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.

http://fans4writers.com/ support the WGA writers strike



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 2:31 PM

RALLEM


Doesn't anybody else here think it is rather selfish for these writers to be thinking about miniscule matters like being treated fairly and feeding their families, when I am starving for entertainment?


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Sunday, November 11, 2007 2:36 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by rallem:
Doesn't anybody else here think it is rather selfish for these writers to be thinking about miniscule matters like being treated fairly and feeding their families, when I am starving for entertainment?


*Observes that Rallem /appears/ to be using sarcasm.*


-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.

http://fans4writers.com/ support the WGA writers strike



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 2:47 PM

RALLEM


Did my effort suck?


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Sunday, November 11, 2007 3:38 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by rallem:
Did my effort suck?




Not at all. Why do you ask?

-Raycheetah =^[.]^=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.

http://fans4writers.com/ support the WGA writers strike



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 3:41 PM

RALLEM


You noted that I made an effort at sarcasm, which to me mean that I didn't really do a good job at it.


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Sunday, November 11, 2007 4:39 PM

RAYCHEETAH


Quote:

Originally posted by rallem:
You noted that I made an effort at sarcasm, which to me mean that I didn't really do a good job at it.



No, actually I observed that you /appeared/ to be using sarcasm; it was a successful effort, if one may view it as such.

I just wanted to be sure my sarcasometer was properly calibrated.

-Raycheetah =^[.]~=
The enjoyment of any good thing is only enhanced by sharing it with others.

http://fans4writers.com/ support the WGA writers strike



http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=30176

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 5:55 PM

ADAPA


Ran into a great piece written by Mark Harris;
http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20159387,00.html

here's a snip
"If you run a company that produces written entertainment, you either believe that writers have value, or you don't. If you do, the only
decent thing to do is to recognize the legitimacy of paying writers a percentage — yes, a whole two-thirds of a penny — as long as the companies
that own their work continue to derive income from it. What's not decent is to have spent valuable
negotiating time floating a specious theory of big-picture bullcrap about how the residual system is ''antiquated'' without offering any alternative compensation in its place."

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