Contract talks between the IATSE, the union representing Hollywood’s “below the line” workers, and the AMPTP, the trade organization representing Hollywood’s largest studios and streamers, are reported to have bogged down.
This unsettling development increases the chance that IATSE members will go out on strike when their current agreement expires on July 31st. This would result in a halt to production on shows and movies, at a time when the industry is still reeling from the impact of last year’s tandem strikes by Hollywood’s writers and actors.
Although details remain unclear, the general area for dispute revolves around worker wages and benefits. The union is seeking an increase in studio contributions to worker pension funds, whose balances have dwindled due to fewer production shoots over the past several years due to the COVID crisis and labor strikes.
“The employers say they can’t afford the increases we are asking for, just like they always do,” a union insider told Deadline. “That’s the playbook, I get it, I think we’ll get to a deal, but the atmosphere is souring.”
Deadline’s latest report contrasts with the most coverage of the negotiations over the past several months, which characterized the talks as progressing well. Both sides recognize the importance of reaching an agreement, to head off a third strike within 18 months.
Another strike would devastate the movie business, causing further disruption to the theatrical release calendar. With a “fairly large gap” between the two sides, the industry will be holding its breath and crossing its fingers until a new agreement can be reached.