SAG, AMPTP, AFTRA, WTF?

Ok, so we allegedly had a strike deadline today.

Here's a quote from SAG's official statement:

"The Screen Actors Guild Codified Basic and Television Agreements covering television programs and motion pictures expire tonight at midnight. Work will continue and all SAG members should report to work and to audition for new work past the expiration date until further notice from the Guild."

Now here's another quote from the AMPTP:

"Our industry is now in a de facto strike, with film production virtually shut down and television production now seriously threatened. In an effort to put everyone back to work, the AMPTP today presented SAG our final offer - a comprehensive proposal worth more than $250 million in additional compensation to SAG members, with significant economic gains and groundbreaking new media rights for all performers."

Can someone tell me what the hell is going on? How can both sides be so completely unconnected that one claims there's a de facto strike, and the other tells its members to go to work. I know this is all good and fun for SAG and the AMPTP, but some of us would like to sleep at night, knowing we'll have a job in the morning.

We shall overcome...

My brother and i were happy to see civil rights pioneer, former Atlanta Mayor and family friend Andy Young on the Colbert Report last night.

We were even more psyched to see him singing a spiritual in solidarity with Stephen's striking writers.

Lest the AMPTP think they've scored a victory with the few returning shows, sing it gang!

My realistic and somewhat verifiable expectations for the duration of the Writer's Strike.

I have been running the scenarios over and over in my head as to what may happen, or what will bring an end to this tedious and harmful labor dispute. I came up with this theory last month, and the more people I run it by, the more I am convinced that I may be right... unfortunately.

I don't expect this strike to be over till August or September for the following reasons listed in hypothetical chronological order

1. The studios plan to allow force majeure clauses to be enacted. Dec. -Jan

2. Once so many contracts are in need of renegotiation it would be in their best interest to skip a costly pilot season altogether, and cancel the Network's shitty programming choices and "dead weight" programs. Feb-Mar

3. By skipping pilot season they can use the growing the desperation within the industry to try and put more pressure on the writers, and try to use the Oscars as a way to turn popular support against the WGA. Mar-Apr

4. It is then in the best interest of the writers not to give in, but rather have the added clout of a DGA/ SAG strike. Apr-Jun

5. It will optimistically take the Studios 2 months to negotiate with 3 striking unions. July-Aug..Sept?

The only caveat is the seeming willingness of the AMPTP to negotiate with the DGA as if THEY were the voice of reason, and the WGA's demands were lunatic. Considering that all three Unions are basically negotiating the same issues, the possibility of a DGA deal underlies the basic personality conflicts that have escalated this stupid stupid strike. What the hell? If there's enough money to go around, spread the friggin wealth, and let's get back to work!

*** The opinions expressed in this blog do not represent the opinions of my employers or my clients, so don't take it out on them.

The You Tube Video that has everyone talking...

"Watch this clip and if you still do not understand why the WGA is striking -- with the full support of actors and teamsters, little old ladies and dogs all over the world -- then it is hopeless."
-Jon Baitz

And now for the Producer's Response.