Odd Lots The Two Strikes That Ground Hollywood to a Halt
Aug 10, 2023
Lucas Shaw, an entertainment reporter at Bloomberg, and Josh Eidelson, a labor reporter for Businessweek, dive deep into the Hollywood strikes that have paralyzed productions. They unravel the historical context of these labor movements and the stark economic disparities within the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by unions, the impact of AI on job security, and the evolving dynamics of solidarity among workers. Their insights reveal the stakes of these disputes, pointing to a critical juncture in Hollywood's labor landscape.
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Dual Hollywood Strike
- Two strikes are occurring in Hollywood: writers (WGA) since May and actors (SAG) since July.
- This dual strike, unseen since 1960, severely disrupts the entertainment industry and related businesses.
Streaming's Impact
- Streaming's rise has transformed Hollywood, impacting project creation, funding, and talent compensation.
- Writers and actors seek higher pay and job security amidst industry changes and decreased studio profits.
Shifting Labor Dynamics
- Recent labor actions signal a potential shift in worker mindset and union tactics.
- While not comparable to the 1950s, increased strikes and organizing efforts suggest growing worker ambition and new union leadership.