Title: Hollywood Strikes: Actors and Writers Demand Fair Compensation and Protections
In an unprecedented move, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Radio and Television Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has joined forces with screenwriters in a joint strike, marking the first such action in over six decades. The industry giants are demanding higher wages and protesting the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in production, particularly its impact on background actors.
Background actors, often referred to as extras, have voiced concerns over the scanning of their likeness on sets without a clear explanation of how it will be used in the future. The lack of advance notice and unclear contracts have left these performers worried about their scans and the potential implications for their careers. Uncertainty looms over how their image may be exploited without proper compensation or consent.
SAG officials argue that AI has become a significant threat to the industry, as it impacts the livelihoods of actors across the board. They are pushing for fair protections and compensation for the use of their likeness, recognizing the urgent need for a new business model that ensures actors can claim rightful compensation.
Background performers have turned to social media platforms to share their experiences of being scanned on set without sufficient explanation or compensation. Their stories have gained traction, shining a spotlight on the industry’s treatment of these performers and the need for change.
Industry experts have acknowledged the validity of concerns raised by performers, emphasizing the importance of a fair compensation system that safeguards their rights. The time has come, they argue, for a new approach to ensure that actors receive appropriate payment for the use of their likeness.
The use of CGI people in the backgrounds of TV and film projects has become increasingly apparent in recent months, triggering a backlash from fans and criticism of budget cuts. Viewers argue that the presence of CGI characters undermines the authenticity of these productions and compromises the overall quality.
As a result of the joint strike by SAG and the Writers Guild of America, the once-thriving film production industry in Hollywood has ground to a halt. Major productions such as Deadpool 3, Gladiator 2, Venom 3, Twisters, and Euphoria have been forced to hit pause until a resolution is reached.
Experts see this strike as a response to the streaming model, which has disadvantaged actors and writers by directing income primarily towards executives. By taking a unified stand, the industry is demanding a fairer distribution of profits that recognizes the contributions of all involved.
As the strike continues with no immediate end in sight, Hollywood finds itself at a crossroads. The actors and writers are resolute in their determination to rectify the imbalances brought on by technology and industry practices, aiming to secure a future where their work is fairly compensated and their rights are protected.
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